Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common disorder in diabetic patients associated with increased cardiovascular risk. The diagnosis is fundamentally clinical, based on a persistent reduction of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (using CKD-EPI equation and/or proteinuria [albumin/creatinine ratio in urine]). Other tests are required in atypical presentation, including kidney biopsy for selected cases. Staging and follow-up is based on albuminuria values and eGFR. Management includes general treatment, glycemic control (glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] levels<7%) and the control of arterial blood pressure (< 130/80mmHg). Nephroprotective drugs like renin-angiotensin-aldosterone blockers (ACEI and ARA II), sodium–glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT2) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1), which improve renal prognosis and preventing cardiovascular events.
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