diabetic nephropathy

The diabetic nephropathy - Kidney damage resulting from longstanding or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. The disorder includes damage to capillaries (tiny blood vessels) in the kidneys and hardening of the tissues. As a result, the kidneys become less able to filter the blood efficiently. Protein may escape into the urine, depleting the body’s supplies (see nephrotic syndrome).

In severe cases, chronic kidney failure may develop. Many affected people have hypertension (high blood pressure), which may also cause damage to the blood vessels.

People with diabetes should have regular check-ups so any kidney problems can be treated as soon as possible. Checks may include urine tests for protein, as well as kidney function tests.