Systemic lupus erythematosus and renal transplantation. Report of two cases

Two cases of systemic lupus erythematosus along with terminal uremia secondary to lupus nephritis are presented. Both patients were treated with renal hemodialysis and transplantation. Certain mechanical, infectious, and immunologic problems were responsible for their death. There was no evidence of resurgence of lupus erythematosus in either patient, and the transplanted kidneys did not show evidence of lupus nephritis. Renal transplantation should be considered as a last resort in treatment of patients with terminal lupus nephritis.