How is lupus nephritis categorized?

Lupus nephritis is categorized primarily based on renal histopathology, which refers to the microscopic examination of kidney tissue to identify specific changes associated with the disease. This categorization is crucial because the histological features observed in the kidney can inform prognosis, influence treatment decisions, and help in understanding the underlying mechanisms of the disease.

There are several recognized classes of lupus nephritis, each defined by distinct histological findings, such as the presence of immune complex deposition, inflammation, and injury to various components of the kidney structure. For example, different classes may show variations like glomerular inflammation or sclerosis, which guide clinicians in managing the condition effectively.

While symptom severity, age of onset, and gender can influence the presentation and outcomes of lupus nephritis, they do not provide a basis for classifying the disease itself in the way that renal histopathology does. The classification based on histopathological features allows for a more standardized approach in both research and clinical settings, making it a cornerstone of lupus nephritis diagnosis and management.