In a patient with hypertension and diabetes, what renal-related benefit is associated with ACE inhibitors?

In a patient with hypertension and diabetes, what renal-related benefit is associated with ACE inhibitors?

• A. Reduces albuminuria and protects renal function
• B. Increases hepatic metabolism
• C. Reduces blood glucose
• D. Raises triglycerides

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is that ACE inhibitors protect kidney function in patients with hypertension and diabetes by lowering the pressure inside the glomeruli and reducing protein leakage. By blocking angiotensin II, they dilate the efferent arteriole, which lowers intraglomerular pressure and decreases albuminuria. This renoprotective effect helps slow diabetic nephropathy and preserves renal function, a central benefit in these patients. Options about hepatic metabolism, glucose levels, or triglycerides don’t reflect this renal-protective action, so they’re not correct.

The key idea here is that ACE inhibitors protect kidney function in patients with hypertension and diabetes by lowering the pressure inside the glomeruli and reducing protein leakage. By blocking angiotensin II, they dilate the efferent arteriole, which lowers intraglomerular pressure and decreases albuminuria. This renoprotective effect helps slow diabetic nephropathy and preserves renal function, a central benefit in these patients.

Options about hepatic metabolism, glucose levels, or triglycerides don’t reflect this renal-protective action, so they’re not correct.