Diabetic nephropathy; principles of diagnosis and treatment of diabetic kidney disease

Diabetes mellitus is a leading epidemic of the present world. It is considered the leading cause of death among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The complications associated with diabetes mellitus have boosted the number of deaths in the last years. These complications are the result of long lasting effects of diabetes mellitus on the glomerular microvasculature of the kidney. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) develops in patients with several years’ medical history of diabetes and renal failure. However, research shows that patients with type 1 diabetes progress early to ESRD as compared to those with type 2. DN is more prevalent in ethnic minorities as compared to other groups in society. There are new and different treatment options available since medical science has progressed due to increased research efforts. Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure. The aim of this article is to explore the research of therapeutic strategies currently in use by medical practitioners in order to increase understanding of DN.