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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
09:43

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice

Published on: June 8, 2022

Fractional excretion magnesium (FE Mg) in systemic lupus erythematosus

Tawatchai Deekajorndech1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Rama IV Rd, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|August 9, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Fractional excretion of magnesium (FE Mg) effectively detects tubulointerstitial fibrosis in lupus nephritis. This sensitive marker aids in early screening of disease severity in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Rheumatology
  • Biomarker Discovery

Background:

  • Tubulointerstitial fibrosis is a key indicator of kidney disease severity.
  • Fractional excretion of magnesium (FE Mg) correlates with tubulointerstitial fibrosis in various glomerulonephropathies.
  • The relationship between FE Mg and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in lupus nephritis has not been previously established.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between FE Mg and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in patients with lupus nephritis.
  • To assess the utility of FE Mg as a potential biomarker for lupus nephritis severity.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 36 lupus nephritis patients was analyzed.
  • Patients were divided into two groups: 18 with intact tubulointerstitial structure and 18 with tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
  • Renal function tests including FE Mg, creatinine clearance (CCr), and urinary protein were measured.

Main Results:

  • The mean FE Mg was significantly higher in patients with tubulointerstitial fibrosis (2.6 ± 1) compared to those with intact structures (1.5 ± 0.3; p = 0.006).
  • Creatinine clearance, total urinary protein, and blood pressure did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusions:

  • FE Mg is a sensitive marker for detecting tubulointerstitial disease in lupus nephritis.
  • FE Mg can be a valuable tool for the early screening of disease severity in systemic lupus erythematosus.

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