Lupus nephritis II: Treatment and monitoring.

Abstract

Renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus nephritis (LN), is common and can result in significant morbidity, including progressive renal dysfunction, and even ultimately leading to death. LN is heterogeneous complicated by the immunologic component, and it is critical to accurately classify LN to direct optimal therapy. Accordingly, identification of objective markers is paramount in reflecting disease stage and monitoring treatment response. In part two of this series, we comprehensively examine LN disease classification, therapies and potential markers to guide therapeutic options.