In addition to blood glucose and Hgb A1c, what test should be done annually for diabetic persons?

For diabetic patients, monitoring kidney function is crucial due to the increased risk of nephropathy associated with diabetes. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a key test in assessing kidney function. It estimates how well the kidneys are filtering blood and can indicate early signs of kidney damage, which may not show symptoms until significant issues arise.

Regular eGFR testing helps healthcare providers identify and manage potential kidney complications in diabetic patients, allowing for timely interventions to slow the progression of renal disease. This is particularly important because kidney problems can lead to severe health consequences, including the need for dialysis or kidney transplants.

In contrast, while urine glucose and urine ketones can provide some information about diabetic control and the risk of ketoacidosis, they are not typically performed annually as standard monitoring. Plasma fructosamines give an indication of average blood glucose over a shorter period than Hgb A1c, making it less critical as an annual test for long-term diabetes management.

Thus, eGFR stands out as a vital test for diabetic patients, supporting the proactive management of kidney health in this population.