What is Systemic Lupus, specifically related to the kidneys, and what are the long term effects of it?

Answer 1

Systemic Lupus Erthematosis;Another member of collagen disease characterised by 1-widespread lesions in the skin in the form of butterfly patch of erythema involving the nos & cheeks 2- lesions in the kidney [wire loop glomerulosclerosis]3- atypical verrucous vegetations on the valves of the heart 4- enlargement of the spleen & lymph nodes.The vascular lesions take the form of fibrinoid necrosis of the media & perivascular fibrosis in the form of concentric rings of collagen fibers [onion skin appearance]

Answer 2

1

Answer 3

2

Answer 4

Lupus is one of many disorders of the immune system known as autoimmune diseases. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system turns against parts of the body it is designed to protect. This leads to inflammation and damage to various body tissues. Lupus can affect many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain. Although people with the disease may have many different symptoms, some of the most common ones include extreme fatigue, painful or swollen joints (arthritis), unexplained fever, skin rashes, and kidney problems.
In relation to Kidneys: Inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis) can impair their ability to get rid of waste products and other toxins from the body effectively. There is usually no pain associated with kidney involvement, although some patients may notice swelling in their ankles. Most often, the only indication of kidney disease is an abnormal urine or blood test. Because the kidneys are so important to overall health, lupus affecting the kidneys generally requires intensive drug treatment to prevent permanent damage.

Answer 5

Some people with SLE have deposits of antibodies within the cells (glomeruli) of the kidneys. However, less than 50% have lupus nephritis as defined by persistent inflammation (irritation and swelling) in the kidney. These patients may eventually develop kidney failure and require dialysis or kidney transplantation.(MedlinePlus)
Painless hematuria or proteinuria may often be the only presenting renal symptom. Acute or chronic renal impairment may develop with lupus nephritis, leading to acute or end stage renal failure. Because of early recognition and management of SLE, end stage renal failure occurs in less than 5% of patients.
Histologically, a hallmark of SLE is membranous glomerulonephritis with "wire loop" abnormalities. This finding is due to immune complex deposition along the glomerular basement membrane leading to a typical granular appearance in immunofluorescence testing.(Wikipedia)
Please see the webpages for more details on SLE.

Answer 6

SLE is a autoimmune disorder and it varies among different individuals. Some produce antibodies against their own kidneys resulting in kidney failure and require dialysis. Suppressing the immune system with corticosteroids has some benefit. There isn't a one size fits all answer for this very serious illness.