Diabetic Nephropathy

Nephrology

Overview

Definition

Progressive kidney damage caused by chronic hyperglycemia.

Epidemiology

Varies globally depending on genetics, environment, or exposure.

Etiology & Risk Factors

  • Long-standing diabetes mellitus.

Clinical Symptoms

  • Microalbuminuria progressing to heavy proteinuria
  • gradual decline in GFR.

Clinical Approach

Diagnosis

  • Urine microalbumin/creatinine ratio
  • Renal biopsy (Kimmelstiel-Wilson nodules).

Management

  • Strict glycemic control
  • ACEi/ARBs
  • SGLT2 inhibitors.

Complications

  • Leading cause of End-Stage Renal Disease globally.