Can lupus lead to kidney failure?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had lupus for a few years now, and it started affecting my kidneys more seriously this past year. I am already on Mycophenolate and low-dose steroids, but my last few laboratory results showed that my kidney function is slipping again, creatinine is up to 2.2, and there is a lot of protein in my urine. I am getting puffy in my legs and feel so tired all the time, like I can barely keep up with daily tasks. Is this a sign I might be heading toward kidney failure? Are there newer treatments or anything else I can add to try to protect my kidneys?

Please advise

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

The symptoms of lupus nephritis may include foamy urine and swelling that occurs when your body has too much fluid, usually in the legs, feet, or ankles, and less often in the hands or face.

Symptoms of kidney failure can include:

Weight loss and poor appetite.
Swollen ankles, feet, or hands as a result of water retention, edema.
Shortness of breath.
Tiredness.
Blood in your pee (urine).
An increased need to pee, particularly at night.
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia).
Itchy skin.

Your complaints could be related to the early stages of kidney impairment.

Medicines to treat lupus nephritis might include:

Steroids, such as Prednisone (Rayos).
Cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune).
Voclosporin (Lupkynis).
Tacrolimus (Astagraf, Envarsus, Prograf).
Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan).
Azathioprine (Azasan, Imuran).
Mycophenolate (CellCept).
Rituximab (Rituxan).

Most importantly, early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent long-term kidney damage. It is also important to eat a low-sodium diet, maintain healthy blood pressure, and exercise regularly. Speak with your healthcare team. There may be other steps you can take to improve your condition.

I hope this answers your questions.

Thank you and regards