Is lupus nephritis associated with kidney damage?

Question

Hello,

I am a 38-year-old woman diagnosed with lupus nephritis last year. Over the past month, I have had increased swelling in my hands and feet, persistent fatigue, and more foamy urine. My latest lab results show proteinuria (4.2 g/24h), a rise in creatinine (1.9 mg/dL from 1.4 mg/dL), and low complement levels. I am currently on mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept), prednisone, and hydroxychloroquine. Should we adjust my treatment plan, and are there any other steps to slow kidney damage?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Treatment plan adjustment-

Disease Activity Assessment: Your healthcare provider will assess disease activity based on symptoms, lab results, and physical examination.
Medication Adjustment: Given your increased proteinuria, rising creatinine, and low complement levels, your healthcare provider may adjust your treatment plan.
Immunosuppressive Therapy: Your current medication, mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept), may need adjustment or a switch to another immunosuppressive to better control disease activity.

Additional measures to slow kidney damage-

Blood Pressure Management: Ensure good blood pressure control. Your provider may adjust medications if necessary.
Proteinuria Management: An ACE inhibitor or ARB may be recommended to reduce proteinuria and slow kidney damage.

Lifestyle modifications:

Follow a balanced diet.
Stay hydrated.
Exercise regularly.
Manage stress.
Get adequate sleep.
Regular monitoring: Consistent monitoring of kidney function, proteinuria, and blood pressure is essential for adjusting treatment and slowing kidney damage.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.