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October 27, 1999

Complications

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Question from Mesa, Arizona, USA:

My father, age 77, is a diabetic which was brought on by his age. The doctor told him that he is having a problem with his kidneys and is ordering all these tests. What is the possible reasons for these tests and the probable diagnosis?

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

I am sorry your father is having problems with his kidneys. The blood tests he is having will determine the amount of kidney function he has lost. Once that is known, his physician will begin treatment to help his kidney function not worsen. Your father will also benefit from good blood sugar and blood pressure control since both affect the kidneys. He may also be placed on a special diet for kidney disease. The purpose of all of this is to know where he stands and to maintain kidney function at the highest level possible.

KS
Additional comments from Dr. Quick:

Of course, we cannot tell without talking to the doctor whether there are other disorders (completely separate from diabetic nephropathy) that the doctor might be concerned about. The lab tests may help ascertain the type of kidney disease as well as the severity.

WWQ