Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a chronic peripheral nerve disorder affecting up to 50% of patients with long-standing diabetes, resulting in sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction. Pathophysiology involves hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, microvascular insufficiency, and axonal degeneration. Clinical manifestations include distal symmetric sensory loss, paresthesia, pain, and autonomic disturbances. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, nerve conduction studies, and exclusion of other neuropathies. Management emphasizes glycemic control, symptomatic pain relief, and preventive care for complications such as foot ulcers; progression can lead to significant disability.