CHANGES IN RENAL MARKERS IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS: EMPHASIS ON DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY AND ITS EARLY DETECTION

Abstract

This article aimed to review the scientific literature on renal biomarkers in patients with diabetes mellitus, with an emphasis on diabetic nephropathy and the early detection of alterations in renal function. It is a narrative review, descriptive in nature and with a qualitative approach, conducted through a search of articles in the PubMed and SciELO databases between February and March 2026, using descriptors related to diabetic nephropathy, renal biomarkers, and early diagnosis. Eleven relevant studies were selected for analysis. The study showed that traditional markers, such as albuminuria and glomerular filtration rate, have significant limitations in the early detection of the disease, since structural alterations can occur before detectable changes in these parameters. In contrast, emerging biomarkers, such as NGAL, KIM-1, cystatin C, as well as inflammatory and oxidative markers and approaches based on "omics" technologies, demonstrate greater sensitivity in identifying early lesions and understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. In conclusion, despite their promising potential, the clinical application of these biomarkers still faces challenges, such as the need for standardization and validation. The development of more sensitive and earlier diagnostic strategies for diabetic nephropathy is fundamental.