PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS AND CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF DIABETIC NEUROPATHY

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common chronic complications of diabetes mellitus and represents a major cause of morbidity among diabetic patients worldwide. It develops as a result of long-term hyperglycemia and metabolic disturbances that lead to structural and functional damage of peripheral nerves. The condition is characterized by a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, including pain, paresthesia, numbness, and progressive sensory loss, which significantly affect patients’ quality of life. The pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy is complex and involves multiple mechanisms such as activation of the polyol pathway, oxidative stress, accumulation of advanced glycation end products, and microvascular dysfunction. These processes contribute to neuronal injury, impaired nerve conduction, and progressive degeneration of peripheral nerve fibers. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and clinical manifestations of diabetic neuropathy is essential for early diagnosis and effective management of the disease. Early detection and appropriate therapeutic strategies can help prevent disease progression and reduce the risk of severe complications such as foot ulcers and amputations. This article reviews the current understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical manifestations of diabetic neuropathy, highlighting their clinical significance and the importance of early recognition in patients with diabetes mellitus.