Remission with SLE means that the disease is no longer actively causing symptoms or damage — but what that looks like can vary from person to person. For some, it means long stretches with no flares, sometimes 10 years or more. For others, it means symptoms are minimal and well-controlled. In the context of lupus nephritis Show Full Answer
Remission with SLE means that the disease is no longer actively causing symptoms or damage — but what that looks like can vary from person to person. For some, it means long stretches with no flares, sometimes 10 years or more. For others, it means symptoms are minimal and well-controlled. In the context of lupus nephritis (when lupus affects the kidneys), remission has a more specific definition. It generally means all of the following for at least one year:
- Kidneys are functioning well (measured by a blood test called eGFR, which should be above 60)
- Little or no protein is found in the urine
- No active lupus symptoms are present
Research shows that maintaining this level of remission for at least three years is especially important — it significantly lowers the risk of long-term kidney damage. Some helpful questions to bring to a rheumatologist appointment include:
- Am I on track to reach remission?
- How are my kidneys being monitored?
- What can be done to help stay in remission longer?
Sticking to a treatment plan, managing blood pressure, and keeping up with regular checkups all play a big role in reaching and maintaining remission.
September 27
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