Lupus Nephritis

Diagnosis

Diagnostic tests to identify lupus nephritis include:

Urinalysis

Patients submit a urine sample for laboratory analysis. Test results provide the health care team with important information about the level of kidney function and whether high levels of red blood cells or protein exist in the urine.

Kidney biopsy

For this procedure, a needle is used to extract small pieces of kidney tissue for examination. Kidney biopsies are performed in the radiology department under ultrasound guidance.

Renal imaging

Ultrasound or X-rays may also be used to evaluate the kidneys' shape or size; cystoscopy (inspection of the inside of the bladder)/urology evaluation may be considered to rule out other causes of bleeding in the urinary tract.