Introduction to diabetic neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathies are the most prevalent chronic complications of diabetes. Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy and autonomic neuropathy are the most commonly seen neuropathies in practice. Atypical diabetic neuropathies include radiculopathy and mononeuropathy.
Many patients with a diabetic neuropathy do not experience symptoms, so it is important to routinely assess patients for signs and symptoms of neuropathy, and implement strategies in those with abnormal findings to prevent adverse outcomes such as diabetic foot ulcer. For frequency of monitoring, see Recommended frequency of screening for and monitoring of chronic complications and conditions associated with type 1 diabetes for type 1 diabetes and Recommended frequency of screening for and monitoring of chronic complications and conditions associated with type 2 diabetes for type 2 diabetes.
Achieving glycaemic targets can prevent diabetic symmetrical polyneuropathy and cardiac autonomic neuropathy in patients with type 1 diabetes and may slow their progression in type 2 diabetes, but it does not reverse neuronal loss. Although no specific treatments are available to treat established diabetic neuropathy, management of symptoms and diligent self-management can improve quality of life.