Read more Key takeaways: Lupus nephritis is a common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. New therapies are now available with different mechanisms of action. The therapeutic landscape is evolving with ongoing clinical trials. Lupus nephritis occurs in approximately half of patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus. One in 10 patients with lupus nephritis will progress to end-stage kidney disease, and risk is higher for Black and Hispanic patients.