Expert: Newell R. Falkinburg, M.D., FACP - 6/14/2008

Question
I am 52, was in great shape until a hysterectomy three years ago, since have gained 40#  A recent blood test showed all normal except an eGFR of 58 (>o=60 normal) and a ridiculous ANA of 1:5820.  Normal would be 1:40.   So.  Obviously I'm going to a rheumatologist, but shall I also see a nephrologist?  My back has been hurting for a few months,and I've had leg edema, but I thought it was because of the weight gain.  Now I wonder.......too much meat protein? something more substantial?  Can i support my kidneys somehow?

Answer
First of all, your weight gain has virtually NOTHING to do with your hysterectomy.  Ther most common cause of weight gain is too much food.

Having said that, Systemic lupus erythyematous, which you most likely have, is often associated with a kidney disease called lupus nephropathy that can be associated with kidney failure as well as the loss of large amounts of protein into the urine. If the later is happening, one can retain large amounts of fluid and this can be associated with a precipituous gain in body weight.

"YES" you need a nephrologist badly.

Sincerely,

Dr. Falkinburg