Aims of the study

Researchers at King’s College London want to understand how people with lupus-related kidney disease feel about stopping immune-suppressing treatment and the monitoring needed to do this safely.

Study type

Online interview

Who is able to participate?

Adults (18 years or older) with lupus nephritis (kidney disease caused by lupus) who are willing to take part in a 45–60 minute online interview via Microsoft Teams.

Where is the study happening?

King's College London University

Open and close dates of recruitment

16th July 2026 - 30th September 2026

How do I get involved?

You can register your interest by completing our short screening questionnaire. If you are eligible, a member of the research team will contact you to arrange a single online interview lasting 45–60 minutes via Microsoft Teams. Screening questionnaire: https://qualtrics.kcl.ac.uk/jfe/form/SV_82DYW2nD5dGkelU

Summary

People with lupus can develop inflammation in their kidneys, known as lupus nephritis. Treatment usually includes medicines that reduce the activity of the immune system to protect the kidneys and prevent flare-ups. After the disease has been stable for some time, some people may be able to reduce or stop these medicines, but there are uncertainties about when this is appropriate and how best to monitor patients afterwards.

Researchers at King’s College London are carrying out a study to understand the views and experiences of people living with lupus nephritis regarding immune-suppressing treatment and monitoring after treatment withdrawal. We are interested in what matters most to patients, including any concerns, expectations, and preferences.

If you choose to take part, you will be invited to a single online interview lasting approximately 45–60 minutes via Microsoft Teams. During the interview, you will be asked about your experiences and opinions. Your participation will help researchers design future studies and improve care for people living with lupus nephritis. Participation is voluntary, and all information you provide will be kept confidential. We are able to offer eligible participants a £20 voucher as a thank-you for taking part in the interview.

Has this study received ethical approval

LRU/RGO-25/26-56216 KCL Ethic investigators

Lead investigators

Dr Ayah Mekhaimar – [email protected]; Dr Michael Robson – [email protected]

Who is funding the study

No funding