Diabetes and kidney disease

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The book consists of 17 chapters. Part 1 of the book covers the background to renal disease in diabetes, and an introduction to the pathophysiology. As you may expect, this covers the basics in terms of pathophysiology, histology and diagnosis, but also the genetic risk factors for diabetic nephropathy. These chapters are presented in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that they provide the important facts in a manageable format. The chapters I found most useful were those in parts 2 and 3 of the book. Part 2 deals with special situations, risk factors and complications, and addresses clinical situations and questions which arise when dealing with patients with diabetic nephropathy. Each of these chapters carefully presents the background to the problem, and an analysis of the key trial data and most up-to-date guidelines before reaching clinical conclusions based on the available evidence. I found the chapters entitled statin therapy and diabetic nephropathy, and also diabetes, the bone and kidney to be particularly useful. Part 3 of the book deals with prevention and therapy of renal disease in patients with diabetes and, again, is very clinically based. Chapters 13 to 15 provide key information on management of patients in terms of their glycaemic and blood pressure control, not only regarding the best treatments, but how these doses should be adjusted in renal disease. In particular, the chapter on antihypertensive treatment provides a clear analysis of important trials, and reaches logical and clinically relevant conclusions, stressing the importance of prevention of progression of nephropathy where possible. Finally, treatment options for end-stage renal disease are explored in detail. Throughout the book, good use is made of ‘key points’ boxes which were extremely helpful, and each chapter is subdivided, into complementary sections, ensuring it is easy to read and assimilate the information. Overall, I would recommend this book to diabetologists and nephrologists to increase confidence when managing renal complications of diabetes.