Objective: We aimed to assess serum levels of Cystatin C (Cys C) and βeta2 Microglobulin (β2M) in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) patients and investigate their role as potential biomarkers of lupus nephritis (LN) and overall disease activity. Materials and Methods: Serum (s) Cys C and β2M levels in 40 JSLE patients were compared to 40 matched controls. SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI-2K), the renal SLEDAI (rSLEDAI) and the renal damage index were assessed. Results: JSLE patients had significantly elevated sCyc C and sβ2M levels (1.38 ± 0.78 mg/ml and 2.79 ±0.87 mg/ml) as compared to the controls (0.62 ± 0.12 mg/ml and 2.02 ± 0.18 mg/ml, respectively), P |
