Children's Hospital Colorado
Kidney

Lupus Nephritis

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What is lupus nephritis?

Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney inflammation often found in patients who suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), known commonly as lupus. SLE, or lupus, is an autoimmune disease that can affect many different parts of the body, including the kidneys.

There are four different types of lupus:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Cutaneous lupus erythematosus
  • Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
  • Neonatal lupus

What causes lupus nephritis in children?

Lupus nephritis is brought on by SLE, which causes the child's immune system to attack their own tissues and organs. When the immune system attacks the kidney tissue, it causes inflammation and can destroy parts of kidney.

Who gets lupus nephritis?

Lupus nephritis can affect anybody, but it is most common in non-Caucasian females. Depending on age, lupus nephritis can be between 3 to 15 times more common in females than in males, and it is 2 to 3 times more common in women of color.

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