[Haemodialysis for renal failure in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus (author's transl)].

Severe acute renal failure developed in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus which was characterized by typical skin rash, polyserositis, haemolytic anaemia and liver damage. Serological examination revealed anti-DNA antibodies in high concentrations, positive Coombs' test, excessive elevation of serum-IgG with markedly depressed serum complement fractions (C3, C4). Acute lupus nephritis led to prolonged oliguria and anuria requiring regular dialysis over almost five months. Immuno-suppressive treatment with cortisone and azathioprine finally reversed the renal failure: BUN returned to 33 mg/ 100 ml, with a plasma creatinine of 1.8 mg per 100 ml.