The pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of lupus nephritis.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

Renal involvement is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus. In this review, we provide an update on recent discoveries in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of lupus nephritis.

Recent findings

Localized long-lived plasma cells have been identified as playing an important role in lupus nephritis. In addition, the roles of aberrant expression of microRNAs and proinflammatory cytokines have been explored. Early diagnosis is important for effective treatment and multiple biomarkers have been identified; however, none has been yet validated for clinical use. Biomarker panels may turn out to be more accurate than each individual component. Biologic agents for the treatment of lupus nephritis are being studied, including

SUBMITTER: Schwartz N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4221732 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature