A Q&A With Tina Kochar, MD, FASN
Dr Tina Kochar, MD, FASN, discusses effective strategies for increasing screening and early diagnosis of lupus nephritis (LN) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She emphasizes the importance of timely follow-ups and referrals, as well as routine laboratory testing to detect kidney involvement. She highlights that the potentially asymptomatic nature of LN makes regular screening crucial.
Dr Kochar notes the significance of early diagnosis to prevent progressive kidney damage. She also stresses the goal of achieving complete remission to improve kidney survival, citing updated guidelines that advocate for aggressive proteinuria reduction.
The discussion delves into LN treatment approaches, including the FDA-approved drugs voclosporin and belimumab. She also discusses challenges in coordinating care between nephrologists and rheumatologists and emphasizes the need for patient education to overcome barriers to treatment access.
Dr Kochar discusses ongoing research and trials exploring new therapies for LN, such as obinutuzumab and anifrolumab. She concludes with a call for persistent efforts in early referral, effective communication, and patient education to optimize management of LN and prevent long-term kidney damage.
This summary was AI-generated and reviewed by an AJMC editor.
For other articles and videos in this AJMC(R) Perspectives publication, please visit "Navigating Lupus Nephritis Care: Insights for Managed Care Decision Makers"
Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity: Urban Health Outreach
May 9th 2024In the series debut episode of "Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity," Mary Sligh, CRNP, and Chelsea Chappars, of Allegheny Health Network, explain how the Urban Health Outreach program aims to improve health equity for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Listen
Tackling Health Inequality: The Power of Education and Experience
April 30th 2024To help celebrate and recognize National Minority Health Month, we are bringing you a special month-long podcast series with our Strategic Alliance Partner, UPMC Health Plan. Welcome to our final episode of this limited series and our conversation with Janine Jelks-Seale, MSPPM, director of health equity at UPMC Health Plan.
Listen