Related Experiment Videos
The predictive value of microalbuminuria
M W Steffes1, B M Chavers, R W Bilous
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis 55455.
Abstract:
An elevated urinary albumin excretion (termed microalbuminuria) has been proposed as a predictor for later development of clinical diabetic nephropathy (hypertension, falling glomerular filtration rate [GFR], and urinary albumin excretion greater than 300 mg/24 h). However, review of the original reports on the predictability of microalbuminuria revealed a concomitant presence of elevated BP and a propensity to falling GFR. Thus, the predictability of microalbuminuria rests on the added evaluation of BP and GFR. Additional investigation is needed to address the possibility that microalbuminuria and either a rising BP or a falling GFR or both indicates established diabetic nephropathy rather than predicting its development.
Insights
Microalbuminuria may not predict diabetic nephropathy alone. Elevated blood pressure (BP) and falling glomerular filtration rate (GFR) are crucial factors. Further research is needed to clarify its role.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Microalbuminuria is proposed as an early predictor of diabetic nephropathy.
- Diabetic nephropathy is characterized by hypertension, declining GFR, and high urinary albumin excretion.
- Existing studies suggest microalbuminuria's predictive value is linked to concurrent elevated BP and reduced GFR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the predictive capability of microalbuminuria for diabetic nephropathy.
- To determine if microalbuminuria, alongside elevated BP or falling GFR, signifies established disease rather than future development.
Main Methods:
- Review of original reports on microalbuminuria predictability.
- Analysis of concomitant presence of elevated blood pressure (BP) and falling glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
Main Results:
- The predictability of microalbuminuria appears dependent on the concurrent assessment of BP and GFR.
- Original reports indicate that elevated BP and a tendency towards falling GFR were present alongside microalbuminuria.
Conclusions:
- The predictive power of microalbuminuria for diabetic nephropathy is not absolute and requires concurrent evaluation of BP and GFR.
- Further investigation is necessary to ascertain if microalbuminuria combined with rising BP or falling GFR indicates established diabetic nephropathy.