Diabetic Nephropathy is diagnosed using tests that check for protein
(albumin) in the urine, which points to kidney damage. Microalbumin urine tests
can detect very small amount of proteins in urine which can not be detected by a
routine urine test, allowing for early detection of Nephropathy. Early detection
is very essential, to prevent further damage of the kidneys. The results of two
tests, performed within three to six months, are needed to diagnose
Nephropathy.
Diabetics have higher chances of kidney disease as their Diabetes course
prolonging. It is suggested that Type 1 Diabetics should begin yearly
microalbuminuria test after Diabetes for five years, and type 2 Diabetics need
to start yearly test when they are diagnosed.
A microalbuminuria strip test can detect small amounts of proteins in the
urine(microalbuminuria, also called as proteinuria). The strip changes color
when there is protein in urine, thus providing an estimate for the output of
proteins in urine. Spot urine test for microalbuminuria can precisely measure
the exact amount of protein in urine.
In addition, serum creatinine test is frequently performed to diagnose kidney
disease. Creatinine is a wasteful product that should be removed by the kidneys.
The creatinine test is a blood test that shows how well the kidneys are
working.
If your doctors suspect your kidney disease is caused by a disease other than
Diabetes, other blood and urine tests may be performed.