Kidney filtration damaged by immune system. Light micrograph of a section through a glomerulus (blood filtration structure) from kidney tissue in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The glomerulus (round, centre) is a tightly wound coil of blood vessels. The numerous glomeruli of a kidney are used to filter and clean the blood. SLE is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own organs. Treatment is with corticosteroid and immunosuppressant drugs. A special diet may be needed when the kidneys are affected by this condition. Kidney failure will require dialysis and a kidney transplant.