Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a connective tissue disease characterized 
by the formation of autoantibodies and immune complexes. Lupus nephritis is one 
of the hallmark features of SLE. CXCL10 is a chemokine secreted by IFNg- 
stimulated endothelial cells and has been shown to be involved in the 
pathological processes of autoimmune diseases. The objective was to measure 
urinary CXCL10 in SLE patients, to compare levels between nephritis and 
non-nephritis groups and to study its correlation with other variables. Sixty 
lupus patients were enrolled in our trial. Thirty patients had lupus nephritis 
and the other 30 were without evidence of lupus nephritis. Thirty healthy 
subjects were willing to participate as a healthy control group. Renal biopsy 
was performed for lupus nephritis group. Urinary CXCL10 was measured using the 
ELISA technique. Serum creatinine, C3, C4 and 24 h urinary proteins were 
measured. Lupus activity was assessed using systemic lupus erythematosus disease 
activity index (SLEDAI) scoring system. Renal activity was measured using renal 
activity scoring system. CXCL10 was significantly higher in lupus nephritis 
patients than in lupus patients without nephritis. CXCL10 was significantly 
correlated with renal activity score, 24 hours urinary proteins and the SLEDAI 
score. It is highly valid predictor of SLE nephritis with high sensitivity and 
specificity. CXCL 10 a highly sensitive and specific non-invasive diagnostic 
tool for lupus nephritis patients.