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Lupus Health Center

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Surgery

Surgery is not used to treat mild or moderate symptoms of lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE). Surgery may be considered for people with lupus who have permanent, life-threatening kidney damage. A kidney transplant or kidney dialysis may be done instead of continuing long-term treatment with high doses of medications that have serious side effects.

  • If kidney disease from lupus does not respond to high-dose corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications, kidney dialysis or transplant are reasonable options.
  • For unknown reasons, overall lupus disease activity is often less severe during dialysis and after kidney transplant.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 17, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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