The nephritis of systemic lupus erythematosus--a review.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease of unknown aetiology. Its hallmark is anti-nucleic acid antibodies and it is accompanied by variable clinical, serologic, and histologic signs. Renal involvement in SLE has been documented for over 50 years; it represents one of the most serious complications of this systemic disorder. Although our understanding of the pathogenesis and natural history of lupus nephropathy is still inadequate, it is nevertheless more comprehensive than in most other forms of glomerulonephritis. This paper will review current concepts in the pathogenesis, histologic classification, clinical course, clinico-pathological correlation and therapeutic strategy of lupus nephropathy.