Kidney Problems, possibly Lupus

[Christina McCurdy]

I was not sure what topis area this was, but here it goes. I am the 23 year old type I diabetic mother of a 10 month old baby boy. I have been spilling protein in my urine since i was 14 years old and my endocrinologist sent me to a nephrologist today. The nephrologist said that he does not think my kidney failure is due to my diabetes or to the pregnancy. he thinks it may be from some "other" disease. Anyone experienced this or have any ideas?? I am terrified. He named a couple diseases that it might be, and only two i can remember....lupus and Hep C. I believe i was tested for Hep C when i had my son, so i dont think that is a possibility. Please help. Thanks

[Christina McCurdy]

We fully expected the kidney failure (yes, it is diagnosed by a nephrologist) to be from the diabetes. After the examination and all, he said he really does not think this has anything at all to do with it. He believes it is something else.

[Christie2004]

You wouldn't have been tested for HepC when you had your son, unless there were some clear indications.  It is rarely routinely tested for during prenatal care.  HepC wouldn't necessarily cause there to be protein in the urine--it mainly affects the liver.

You said "kidney failure".  Have you actually been diagnosed with that, or do you simply have proteinuria?  It is very common for long term diabetics to have proteinuria.  No matter how tight the control, there is usually some degree of underlying renal problems.  

I'm sure furthur testing will help reveal what is really going on.  I wish you luck.