Diabetic Nephropathy

Overview

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as Kimmelstiel-Wilson syndrome, is a progressive kidney disease caused by microvascular damage to the glomerular capillaries in long-standing diabetes. It features nephrotic syndrome and diffuse glomerulosclerosis and is a leading cause of dialysis in developed countries.

Symptoms

• Foamy urine
• Edema
• Fatigue
• Elevated blood pressure
• Loss of appetite

Treatment

Strict control of blood glucose and blood pressure, first-line ACE inhibitors or ARBs to reduce proteinuria, restricted protein intake, and dialysis or kidney transplantation in end-stage disease.

Dietary advice

Quality low-protein, low-salt diet, blood glucose control, and restriction of high-phosphorus and high-potassium foods.