Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease, and lupus nephritis (LN) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Renal biopsy is essential and the gold standard to diagnose LN. Extra-glomerular involvement is seen in up to 60% of patients with LN and is associated with poor outcomes. The revised International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society classification for LN has changed the parameters for activity index scoring, redefined crescent and highlighted the significance of extra-glomerular involvement. Repeat renal biopsy is done for resistant disease or during a flare, usually when atypical features are present or when the baseline biopsy showed non-proliferative histology. Protocol repeat biopsy may prove to be valuable as a monitoring tool in patients with LN. Newer modalities of therapy like multitargeted therapy and biological agents may pave a way for better outcomes with minimal adverse effects to the patients.
© Journal of the Association of Physicians of India 2011.