Fava et al. investigated longitudinal autoantibody profiles in patients with lupus nephritis (LN) to define serological biomarkers of histologic class. They found that baseline levels of anti-C1q and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies may serve as noninvasive biomarkers of proliferative LN and anti-C1q antibodies may predict complete response.
Lupus Update: Findings from the Latest Phase 3 Clinical Trials
Two new treatment studies among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis had promising results.
Belimumab Promising for Children with Lupus Nephritis
Belimumab is now FDA approved to treat children aged 5 years and older with active lupus nephritis, providing treatment options for pediatric patients at risk of developing renal damage.
Kidney Pathology for the Rheumatologist: Tips from an Expert
Renal biopsy is a valuable tool for the accurate diagnosis and management of patients with kidney involvement due to rheumatic disease. Agnes B. Fogo, MD, shared her expertise on renal pathology and insights into what rheumatologists should know, during a session at the 2022 ACR Education Exchange.
Case Report: Atypical Presentation of Idiopathic Retroperitoneal Fibrosis
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare condition characterized by aberrant fibroinflammatory tissue developing in the retroperitoneum. This disorder was initially called Ormond’s disease. RPF may be idiopathic or secondary to other conditions. Idiopathic RPF is a part of the disease spectrum of chronic periaortitis due to its typical periaortoiliac localization. Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis is a…
2-Year Extension Study Supports Voclosporin to Treat Patients with Lupus Nephritis
Research has shown voclosporin in combination with MMF and low-dose steroids benefits patients with lupus nephritis, significantly increasing the speed of remission. New data from an ongoing extension study demonstrate a positive risk/benefit profile.
FDA Warning: Avoid Use of NSAIDs after Week 20 of Pregnancy
The FDA is recommending pregnant women avoid using NSAIDs as early as week 20 of pregnancy due to the risk of kidney problems in a developing fetus.
Monthly Belimumab Infusions Preserve Kidney Function in Some Lupus Patients
(Reuters Health)—Intravenous belimumab combined with standard lupus therapy can help preserve kidney function in patients with active lupus nephritis and cut the odds of death or a renal-related event by half, a phase 3 multinational study has concluded.1 After two years of therapy, 43% of 224 volunteers getting the drug monthly showed a renal response…
Bone Density Concerns: Guidance on Tackling Fracture Risk in CKD
Suggestions on how to assess risk and manage bone issues in chronic kidney disease patients are offered…
Renal Transplant Outcomes in Patients with Lupus Nephritis
A recent study from Brazil suggests lupus nephritis patients who receive renal transplant have a high five-year survival rate. Researchers found the presence of venous thrombosis and antiphospholipid syndrome, but not viral infection, were important predictors of renal graft loss in these patients…