Best Doctor List Near You for Lupus Nephritis in Ann arbor

Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney inflammation that occurs as a complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. In lupus nephritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the kidneys, leading to inflammation and damage of the glomeruli, the filtering units within the kidneys. This condition impairs the kidneys' ability to filter waste products from the blood, potentially causing a range of symptoms and complications. The primary cause of lupus nephritis is the systemic inflammation and autoimmune activity associated with SLE. The exact mechanism involves the formation of autoantibodies that target the kidneys, leading to immune complex deposition and subsequent inflammation. Lupus nephritis can occur in individuals with existing lupus, and its severity can vary from mild to severe, depending on the extent of kidney involvement and damage. Complications of lupus nephritis can be severe and include chronic kidney disease, which may progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Other complications may involve hypertension, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances. Lupus nephritis can also lead to increased risk of infections due to the use of immunosuppressive medications required to manage the condition. Symptoms may include swelling, blood in the urine, proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), and elevated levels of creatinine or urea in the blood. Effective management of lupus nephritis involves a combination of immunosuppressive medications to control inflammation, medications to manage blood pressure and proteinuria, and regular monitoring of kidney function to prevent or address complications.