Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
Published on: June 8, 2022
Protein-losing enteropathy in systemic lupus erythematosus: case report
Fernando Moreira Batista Aguiar1, Zilaís Linhares Carneiro Menescal, Débora Maia da Costa
1Hospital Geral César Cals de Oliveira, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil. fernandombaguiar@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Protein-losing enteropathy is rarely seen in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. This clinical condition should be suspected in the presence of persistent hypoalbuminemia despite normal liver function, adequate protein intake, and no significant proteinuria. We report the case of a 48-year-old female with weight loss, cavity effusions (ascites and pleural effusion), and lower extremity edema. The diagnosis of lupus was established based on the presence of lymphopenia, proteinuria, ANA, and positive autoantibodies (anti-Sm, anti-DNA, and anti-Ro). Because hypoalbuminemia persisted even with corticosteroid therapy at the dose of 1 mg/kg, protein-losing enteropathy was diagnosed by use of Tc-99m albumin scintigraphy. After adding azathioprine to the treatment, the symptoms subsided and serum albumin levels improved.
Related Concept Videos
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management
Overview of Protein Metabolism
Amino acids play various roles in the body once they are absorbed into cells. They are restructured...
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Lysosomal Hydrolases
