LN is characterized by autoantibody-mediated vasculitis that may lead to rapid progression of multi-system and organ damage. The kidneys are often involved due to excretion of excessive urinary protein and/or rapidly progressive kidney injury, and end-stage renal disease may result. Treatment-related differences in the rates of renal failure may not be discernible early in the course of treatment, but there are definite advantages of rapid remission, effective prophylaxis against relapse, and prevention of renal failure.