Abstract

DIABETIC PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY: EPIDEMIOLOGY, PHYSIOPATHOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT

Pratibha Bhagwat*, Supriya Hambir, Ashwini Andhale, Santosh Waghmare and Hemant Kamble

ABSTRACT

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes frequently result in the condition known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). More than 90% of diabetes individuals are impacted by it. Several alternative theories have been put out, but it is generally agreed that the toxic consequences of hyperglycemia play a significant part in the emergence of this problem. Significant impairments in tactile sensitivity, vibration perception, lower-limb proprioception, and kinesthesia are frequent characteristics. It has been demonstrated that painful DPN is linked to considerable declines in overall quality of life, elevated levels of anxiety and depression, worse sleep, and increased gait variability. DPN is frequently improperly diagnosed and treated. DPN must be clinically recognized in order to enable prompt symptom management and lower the morbidity linked to this illness. The main methods for treating painful peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes include ruling out other possible causes, enhancing glycemic control as a preventative measure, and employing painkillers. Anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin and gabapentin, and antidepressants, particularly those that act to prevent the reuptake of serotonin and noradrenaline, are among the first-line painkillers. Additionally, there is experimental and clinical proof that opioids, especially when used in conjunction with first-line medications, can help reduce pain. Other medications, particularly those for topical use like capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches, have also been suggested as adjuvants in the management of diabetic neuropathic pain, however, there is little clinical evidence to support their usage. Examining potential DPN mechanisms and summarizing the present treatment plan are the goals of this review. In the quest for new treatments, a deeper comprehension of the mechanisms behind diabetic neuropathic pain will be helpful.

Keywords: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, Neuropathic pain, Diabetes Epidemiology, pharmacotherapy, Anticonvulsants and Antidepressants are all aspects of diagnosis.