11-20-2006, 06:42 PM
A 29 year old woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for the last 4 years comes for evaluation of malaise, nausea, vomiting, and depression. She currently denies joint pain. Three years ago, the patient was given steroids but stopped them on her own when she became pregnant. Upon examination, the patient has a heart rate of 84/minute and a blood pressure of 162/98 mm Hg. Laboratory studies show a hematocrit of 27.4%, with a serum creatinine of 3.7 mg/dL and potassium of 4.9 mEq/L. Her urinalysis has 2+ protein and 25-50 red blood cells/hpf. Regarding renal biopsy, which one of the following is the best answer?
A. It is not indicated in this patient.
B. It is mandatory in a patient with positive lupus serology to rule out lupus nephritis.
C. Biopsy is used to determine the need for cyclophosphamide.
D. It is indicated only in relapse patients.
E. It is indicated in drug-induced lupus
A. It is not indicated in this patient.
B. It is mandatory in a patient with positive lupus serology to rule out lupus nephritis.
C. Biopsy is used to determine the need for cyclophosphamide.
D. It is indicated only in relapse patients.
E. It is indicated in drug-induced lupus