Diabetic peripheral neuropathy and the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain

Postgrad Med. 2012 Jul;124(4):145-53. doi: 10.3810/pgm.2012.07.2576.

Abstract

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) affects approximately half of patients with diabetes. Neuropathic pain is a major complaint of patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can also lead to autonomic dysfunction. This article provides an outline of the clinical subtypes, pathophysiological features, and diagnosis of DPN. Disease-modifying treatments are reviewed, with particular attention paid to DPN pain management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetic Neuropathies / complications
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / diagnosis
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / physiopathology
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / therapy*
  • Disease Management
  • Humans
  • Pain Management / methods*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / therapy*