Evaluation of serum cystatin C in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) with and without clinically evident nephritis

Abstract

Author(s): Tiba Mohammed Shakir*, Raid Jassim Mohamed and Jalal Abed Altaai

Is an autoimmune, multi-system, chronic, inflammatory, and fatal disease, with different clinical manifestations that have been identified as a common and significant health challenge worldwide. This disease is a disorder of unknown origin that affects several organs and causes various tissue harm by producing and depositing autoantibodies and pathogen immune complexes in tissues and cells. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus has adverse effects on various physical, mental, and social dimensions of patients’ health and reduces their quality of life. The process of SLE pathogenesis can cause multiple tissue and organ damage. When the kidney is involved, this condition can lead to lupus nephritis. LN (Lupus Nephritis) occurs in about 40% of SLE patients, mostly within 5 years from the diagnosis, and still presents a rate of progression to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) of (4.3%-10.1%). Renal failure, along with infections, cancer, and cardiovascular events, is one of the most common causes of death in SLE patients. Cystatin C is a small-molecular-weight endogenous protein that belongs to the cysteine protease inhibitors, produced by all nucleated cells at a relatively constant rate. Serum cystatin C reliably detects renal dysfunction in patients with various renal diseases including SLE.

Share this article