What is the first lab test that indicates a patient with type 1 diabetes is developing nephropathy?

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The presence of protein in the urinalysis is the first lab test that indicates a patient with type 1 diabetes is developing nephropathy. This is because damage to the kidneys' filtration system (glomeruli) allows proteins to leak into the urine, leading to what is called proteinuria. An increase in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is seen in later stages of kidney disease when significant kidney damage has already occurred. Dipstick test for urine ketones and cloudy urine on urinalysis are not specific for diabetic nephropathy.

What Is the First Lab Test That Indicates a Patient