Association of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy with Micronutrients

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia and often involves increased oxidative stress.
• Diabetic patients exhibit heightened micronutrient requirements due to mitochondrial dysfunction and vascular inflammation.
• Micronutrient imbalances may contribute to the development of diabetic complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and serum levels of key micronutrients.
• Specifically examining copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and vitamin B12 (Vit B12) in relation to DPN.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 130 patients with type-2 diabetes.
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy was diagnosed using the Michigan neuropathy screening instrument.
• Micronutrient levels were measured and correlated with the presence of DPN.

Main Results:

• A significant association was observed between DPN and lower levels of zinc (p=0.02).
• Vitamin B12 deficiency was also significantly linked to DPN (p=0.008).
• No significant association was found between DPN and copper (p=0.57) or magnesium (p=0.24) levels.

Conclusions:

• Zinc and vitamin B12 levels are significantly associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
• These findings suggest potential roles for zinc and vitamin B12 supplementation in managing DPN.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these associations and explore therapeutic implications.