Comparative analysis of the clinical and metabolic profile of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus depending on the presence of diabetic polyneuropathy

Background. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most prevalent chronic non-communicable diseases, with diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) being a serious complication that significantly impairs quality of life and contributes to disability. Despite the high prevalence of DPN, clear criteria for early risk stratification remain undefined. A comparative study of the clinical and metabolic profile of patients with and without DPN allows for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and associated factors. The purpose was to conduct a comparative analysis of clinical and metabolic parameters in patients with T2DM depending on the presence of DPN. Materials and methods. A total of 339 patients with T2DM were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups: with DPN (n = 200) and without DPN (n = 139). Clinical data, laboratory parameters, markers of renal and vascular dysfunction, C-peptide, AGEs, and GSH levels were assessed, along with quality of life, sleep, and autonomic symptoms. DPN was diagnosed using standardized criteria; psycho-emotional state was evaluated with validated questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using the t-test and 2-test. Results. Patients with DPN had significantly longer duration of diabetes, poorer glycemic control, impaired renal function, higher AGEs, and lower GSH levels. The DPN group also showed higher prevalence of coronary heart disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and history of myocardial infarction. Additionally, these patients reported lower subjective health status, poorer sleep quality, and more pronounced autonomic symptoms. Conclusions. The presence of DPN in patients with T2DM is associated with an unfavorable clinical and metabolic profile, multisystem involvement, and reduced quality of life. These findings support the importance of early stratification of patients with T2DM by DPN status to develop personalized strategies for prevention and management of complications.