Clinical and Electrophysiological Evaluation of Diabetic Neuropathy and its Correlation with Retinopathy and Microalbuminuria in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a disabling microvascular complication in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Its association with retinopathy and microalbuminuria suggests a shared pathophysiological mechanism.To assess the clinical and electrophysiological features of DPN and its correlation with retinopathy and urinary microalbumin levels in T2DM patients.Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 95 T2DM patients over 18 months.Neuropathy was assessed clinically using DNS and MNSI scores and electrophysiologically through nerve conduction studies (NCS).Retinal findings were obtained via fundus examination, and nephropathy was evaluated by spot urine albumin-creatinine ratio.Results: Out of 95 patients, the majority showed signs of sensorimotor neuropathy.Significant correlations were observed between poor glycemic control (HbA1c >8%), longer diabetes duration, microalbuminuria, and retinopathy with neuropathy severity.Electrophysiological findings confirmed that the sural and tibial nerves were most affected. Conclusion:Nerve conduction studies are a sensitive tool for the early detection of DPN.Their correlation with microalbuminuria and retinopathy supports the integrated screening of microvascular complications in T2DM.