Important test to determine if SLE needs further evaluation for lupus nephritis
What is the single most important test to order to determine if a patient with SLE needs further evaluation for lupus nephritis?
A urinalysis should be performed at every visit in patients with SLE, because lupus nephritis may be asymptomatic or intermittent.
The presence of protein or blood on dipstick and/or the presence of red blood cells (RBCs) or RBC casts on microscopic examination requires further workup for lupus nephritis.
Glycosuria (with a normal plasma glucose) and sterile pyuria can also represent kidney involvement.
Proteinuria, if present on dipstick, should be quantified.
The presence of any blood, protein, or casts in the urine warrants further nephrologic evaluation.
