The Prognosis of Lupus Nephritis

The clinical and histologic renal findings at the time of initial evaluation of 40 patients with systemic lupus erythematosis have been compared and evaluated in the light of the subsequent course of these subjects. Lack of correlation between the presence or absence of clinical renal abnormalities and the degree of renal pathologic change was found fairly frequently. Those individuals without clinical or histologic evidence of significant renal involvement by lupus have generally done well in a follow-up period averaging 30 months. Those with advanced renal lesions and decreases in renal function at the time of initial study have generally done poorly, with rapidly progressive renal disease. A third group has shown a much more variable course. Although the effects of therapy, particularly with corticoids, must be considered, it seems likely that the course of lupus nephritis may vary significantly from patient to patient.