Lupus podocytopathy: An important differential diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus

Some patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) present with sudden onset of nephrotic syndrome and biopsy findings may be of minimal change disease or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis with diffuse foot process effacement on electron microscopy but without significant immune deposits. This entity is termed lupus podocytopathy. Clinicians and renal pathologists need to be aware of this condition. Though steroid sensitive, it needs follow-up to recognize flare and class change, thereby optimizing therapy.