Question 1

What is Lupus Nephritis?

Accepted Answer

Lupus nephritis is a serious kidney complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the kidneys. It is caused by immune complex deposits in the kidney's glomeruli (filtering units), leading to inflammation and progressive kidney damage. The Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for early detection because it identifies protein leakage before severe kidney damage occurs.

Question 2

What causes lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

Lupus nephritis is caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease where your immune system mistakenly attacks your own tissues. In lupus nephritis, antibodies and immune complexes deposit in the glomeruli, which are the tiny filtering units in your kidneys. This triggers inflammation and damage that impairs the kidneys ability to filter waste and excess fluid from your blood, potentially leading to protein loss in urine and progressive kidney damage if left untreated.

Question 3

What is the best test for lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

The Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for detecting early lupus nephritis because it identifies small amounts of albumin protein leaking into your urine before significant kidney damage occurs. When lupus inflames your kidneys, they begin to leak albumin, and this test catches it early. The creatinine measurement standardizes the results for accuracy. Additional blood tests like complete blood count, creatinine, and complement levels (C3 and C4) help assess kidney function and lupus disease activity, while a kidney biopsy may be needed for definitive diagnosis and staging.

Question 4

When should I get tested for lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have been diagnosed with lupus and notice symptoms like foamy urine, swelling in your legs or ankles, high blood pressure, or unexplained weight gain from fluid retention. Regular monitoring is essential for all lupus patients, even without symptoms, since kidney damage can progress silently. Testing every 3-6 months is recommended for lupus patients to catch nephritis early when treatment is most effective at preventing permanent kidney damage.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

Lupus nephritis often develops without obvious symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular testing is crucial. As kidney damage progresses, you might notice foamy or bubbly urine from excess protein, swelling in your legs, ankles, feet, or around your eyes, high blood pressure, weight gain from fluid retention, and darker urine or blood in your urine. Some people experience fatigue, joint pain, and fever, though these symptoms can also be from lupus itself rather than specifically kidney involvement.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

Anyone with systemic lupus erythematosus is at risk for developing lupus nephritis, with about 40-50% of lupus patients developing kidney involvement. Risk is higher in people diagnosed with lupus at a younger age, particularly during childhood or teenage years. African American, Hispanic, and Asian individuals with lupus have higher rates of lupus nephritis compared to Caucasian patients. Men with lupus, though lupus is less common in men overall, also face increased risk of kidney complications. Family history of lupus or kidney disease further elevates your risk.

Question 7

What happens if lupus nephritis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated lupus nephritis progressively damages your kidneys, leading to chronic kidney disease and potentially end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or kidney transplant. The inflammation destroys the glomeruli, causing permanent scarring that cannot be reversed. You may develop nephrotic syndrome with severe protein loss, dangerous fluid retention, and increased infection risk. High blood pressure from kidney damage can lead to heart disease and stroke. Early detection and treatment with immunosuppressive medications can significantly slow or stop kidney damage, which is why regular monitoring is essential for all lupus patients.

Question 8

Can lupus nephritis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose lupus nephritis, but they are essential screening and monitoring tools that detect kidney damage and guide treatment. The Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine test detects early protein leakage indicating kidney involvement. Blood tests measuring creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) assess how well your kidneys are filtering waste. Complement levels (C3 and C4) and anti-dsDNA antibodies help evaluate lupus disease activity. A kidney biopsy remains the gold standard for confirming lupus nephritis and determining its severity and type for treatment planning.

Question 9

How is lupus nephritis treated?

Accepted Answer

Lupus nephritis is treated with immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and prevent further kidney damage. Initial treatment typically includes corticosteroids like prednisone combined with drugs such as mycophenolate mofetil or cyclophosphamide to suppress the overactive immune system. Hydroxychloroquine is often prescribed for all lupus patients as it helps control overall disease activity. Blood pressure medications, particularly ACE inhibitors or ARBs, protect kidney function and reduce protein loss. Treatment is tailored to the severity and type of nephritis determined by kidney biopsy. Regular monitoring with blood and urine tests tracks treatment response and guides medication adjustments.

Question 10

How can I prevent lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent lupus nephritis if you have lupus, you can reduce your risk and slow progression through careful disease management. Take all prescribed lupus medications consistently, even when feeling well, as they help control inflammation before it damages your kidneys. Avoid lupus triggers like excessive sun exposure, infections, and stress that can cause disease flares. Maintain regular follow-up appointments and get recommended blood and urine tests every 3-6 months to catch kidney involvement early. Control your blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medications if needed. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen when possible, as they can stress your kidneys.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage lupus nephritis?

Accepted Answer

Managing lupus nephritis at home focuses on supporting your kidney health and controlling lupus activity. Follow a kidney-friendly diet by limiting sodium to reduce fluid retention and blood pressure, and monitoring protein intake as your doctor recommends. Stay hydrated but follow fluid restrictions if your doctor advises them. Get adequate rest, as fatigue is common, and manage stress through relaxation techniques since stress can trigger lupus flares. Exercise regularly within your energy limits to maintain cardiovascular health. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, both of which can worsen kidney function. Track your symptoms, blood pressure, and weight daily to catch changes early, and report concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
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                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Lupus Nephritis Blood Test

What is Lupus Nephritis?

What causes lupus nephritis?

What is the best test for lupus nephritis?

When should I get tested for lupus nephritis?

References

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