Lupus Nephritis

Treatment

Traditional treatments used to treat lupus nephritis include:

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE) inhibitors -- These medications are used to slow disease progression by limiting protein leakage from the kidneys. ACE inhibitors also assist in hypertension management
• Angiotensin II receptor blocker drugs (A2 ARB) -- These medications also limit protein leakage from the kidneys and slow disease progression
• Steroids, cyclophosphamide and other immunosuppressants -- These medications modify the immune system in response to lupus nephritis

Additional treatment services available to patients include:

• Dietary protein and salt restriction — Clinical nutrition specialists develop nutrition guidelines for patients with lupus nephritis.
• Assistance in blood pressure management — Hypertension clinical nurse specialists assist patients in managing their blood pressure.

Novel therapies being tested in clinical trials through the Mayo Nephrology Collaborative Group are also available for eligible patients.

For those patients who progress to renal failure, treatment may include:

• Dialysis — Mayo Clinic offers state-of-art dialysis treatment, including the option for in-home dialysis.
• Kidney transplantation — The Mayo Clinic Kidney Transplant Program offers pre-transplant consultation, living donor evaluation, kidney transplantation and post-transplantation care.