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Updated: Jun 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

Minimal mesangial lupus nephritis: a systematic review

C C Mok1, T T Cheung, W H Lo

  • 1Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital and Centre for Assessment and Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases, Pok Oi Hospital, Hong Kong, China. ccmok2005@yahoo.com

Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology
|February 20, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Minimal change nephropathy (MCN) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is rare, presenting with heavy proteinuria and often transient kidney dysfunction. Patients typically respond well to glucocorticoids, suggesting a good prognosis for MCN in SLE.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Rheumatology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Minimal change nephropathy (MCN) is an uncommon histological finding in lupus nephritis.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can present with various renal manifestations, including MCN.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the clinical presentation, histological features, treatment, and outcomes of MCN in SLE patients.
  • To review the current literature on MCN associated with SLE.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of English-language literature from January 1985 to May 2009 was conducted using Medline.
  • Case reports of MCN in SLE patients were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • MCN prevalence in lupus nephritis is estimated at 2.3% in children and 1.1% in adults.
  • Thirteen cases of SLE-related MCN were identified, predominantly in women, with a mean onset age of 32.7 years.
  • Most patients presented with nephrotic syndrome; renal function was often impaired, and lupus serology was frequently active. All patients responded to glucocorticoids, though relapses occurred in 31%.

Conclusions:

  • MCN is an uncommon cause of lupus nephritis, typically characterized by heavy proteinuria and often transient renal dysfunction.
  • The prognosis for MCN in SLE is generally favorable due to prompt response to glucocorticoids.
  • Maintenance immunosuppression may reduce proteinuria relapses; alternative agents are options for refractory cases.

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