Study Finds Increased Risk of Kidney Disease in People with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Without Lupus Nephritis

A new study found that people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may face a significantly higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD), cardiovascular complications and premature death, even if they do not have lupus nephritis (LN) and have normal kidney function at diagnosis. Lupus affects different people in different ways. Many people with lupus have problems with their kidneys.  

To understand long-term kidney outcomes, the study focused on 1,145 newly diagnosed individuals with SLE with normal kidney function and no evidence of LN. Participants were compared with more than 91,000 matched individuals without lupus and were followed for a median of nearly six years. The study found those with SLE were more likely to develop chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, as well as experience major heart events, and death compared with people without lupus. Traditional risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and older age, played a major role in the development of kidney disease. Hypertension and diabetes were among the strongest predictors of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. 

This study challenges the common perception that kidney complications mainly affect people with SLE with LN. The findings suggest that LN may go undiagnosed and highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and proactive management of kidney, heart, and metabolic health in lupus. Even when kidney function seems normal, early detection and comprehensive care are essential. Learn more about lupus and the kidneys. 

Read the study