This brief article describes lupus nephritis, an inflammation of the kidney caused by a disease of the immune system. SLE causes harm to the skin, joints, kidneys, and brain. What causes SLE is unknown. However, lupus nephritis may cause weight gain, high blood pressure, dark urine, or swelling around the eyes, legs, ankles, or fingers. Diagnosis may require urine and blood tests and x-rays of the kidneys.
Treatment depends on the symptoms.
Medicines can decrease swelling, lower blood pressure, and decrease inflammation by suppressing the immune system. The patient may need to limit protein, sodium, and potassium intake. CHID is a database produced by health-related agencies of the Federal Government. This database provides titles, abstracts, and availability information for health information and health education resources. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of The National Institutes of Health.