Delayed onset lupus nephritis

[Emily00]

Hi all,

I was diagnosed with lupus at 9 years old when I had a big flare. Its been fairly stable since then until about 2 years ago when it flared badly again. Its been under control for the last 6 months and I feel great. But at my last appointment I have developed proteinuria even though I have not previously had any kidney involvement and the other blood markers are pretty close to OK.

I'm worried I have developed lupus nephritis... will be having a biopsy soon I think.

Has anyone had a similar experience with delayed onset nephritis??

[suzannah16]

that was such a young age to be diagnosed. I don't know how they define delayed but my lupus is sort of borderline nephritis and my renal consultant is always threatening a biopsy, then my kidneys improve so he delays it because I take blood thinners and he's worried about bleeding. will keep my fingers crossed for you. I usually seem to get the worst blood results when i'm feeling good.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Emily00 ,

It is quite uncommon for someone to develop lupus nephritis after having lupus for so long - most often it will happen within the first five years after diagnosis and is commonly detected at the same time as diagnosis. This doesn't mean it isn't possible though. Have you been tested for a urinary tract infection?

[NewEngland3]

I'm 44 and have had lupus since age 22. 2 months ago I developed proteinuria and biopsy shows class V membranous LN--so unfortunately while VERY rare it has happened to me