Diabetic Nephropathy

Alternate Names : Diabetic Kidney Disease, Diabetic Sclerosis, Diabetic Glomerulosclerosis

How is the condition diagnosed?

Urine testing is done in healthy people with diabetes to screen for diabetic nephropathy. These tests generally shows increased amounts of protein in the urine if diabetes has damaged the kidneys. Sometimes, the urine is collected over a 24-hour period to get a more exact measurement of the amount of kidney damage. If kidney damage is severe, blood tests will show decreased kidney function.

A kidney biopsy may be done to evaluate the amount of kidney damage. This involves inserting a special needle through the skin and into the kidney. A small piece of tissue can be taken from the kidney with the needle. The lab can then examine the tissue.

Other special blood or urine tests may be done in some cases.