Lupus nephritis is inflammation of the kidney that's caused by systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). Also called lupus, SLE is an autoimmune disorder. With lupus, the body's system targets its own body tissues. Lupus nephritis happens when lupus involves the kidneys.
60% of lupus patients will develop lupus nephritis. When the kidneys are inflamed, they can not function normally and may leak protein. If not controlled, lupus nephritis can cause renal failure.
Lupus nephritis is a serious problem. Its symptoms, though, are not always dramatic. For many, the primary noticeable symptom is swelling of the legs, ankles and feet. Less often, there can be swelling in the face or hands.
Other symptoms can vary from person to person and from day to day. They may include:
Weight gain High blood pressure Dark urine Foamy, frothy urine The need to urinate during the night
Not all urinary or kidney problems in people with lupus are thanks to lupus nephritis. People with lupus can also be susceptible to tract infections. These cause burning on urination and need treatment with antibiotics. Certain lupus medications also can affect the kidneys and cause swelling and other symptoms almost like those of lupus nephritis. Problems associated with these drugs usually get away when the drugs are not any longer used.