Diabetic Nephropathy Flashcards
What is a serious microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus?
Diabetic nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy is characterized by kidney damage due to diabetes.
What are the key characteristics of diabetic nephropathy?
- Proteinuria
- Progressive decline in GFR
- Hypertension
These characteristics indicate the progression of kidney dysfunction.
What is the first step in the pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy?
Hyperglycaemia-induced damage to renal microvasculature
This damage leads to various structural changes in the kidneys.
What are the two main structural changes resulting from hyperglycaemia in diabetic nephropathy?
- Glomerulosclerosis
- Tubulointerstitial fibrosis
These changes contribute to the decline in kidney function over time.
What is the eventual outcome of untreated diabetic nephropathy?
End-stage renal disease
This is the final stage where kidneys can no longer function adequately.
What histological feature is associated with diabetic nephropathy?
- Kimmelstiel-Wilson nodules
- Diffuse glomerular basement membrane thickening
- Mesangial expansion
- Arteriolar hyalinosis
These features are important in diagnosing diabetic nephropathy.
What are the key management strategies for diabetic nephropathy?
Strict glycaemia control
Hypertension control
Maintaining normal blood glucose levels is crucial to prevent progression.
What are possible complications of diabetic nephropathy?
- Progress to dialysis
- Require kidney transplant
These complications reflect the severity of kidney failure in advanced cases.
