Correlation of Triglyceride-Glucose Index and the Presence of Microvascular Complications of Diabetes

Background In recent decades, there has been a substantial rise in the global burden of diabetes and the complications associated with it. Among the numerous complications, the most prevalent are the microvascular ones, namely, diabetic retinopathy (DR), neuropathy, and nephropathy. These conditions contribute considerably to both morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes. Early identification and management of microvascular complications not only help in mitigating their progression but may also play a role in preventing subsequent macrovascular events, such as ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular accidents. This underscores the importance of identifying reliable, accessible markers that can indicate the presence or potential risk of developing such complications. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, derived from fasting blood glucose and triglyceride levels, is a simple and routinely obtainable measure that has gained attention for its possible role in this context. This study aims to evaluate the association between the TyG index and the occurrence of microvascular complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Objectives This study aimed to estimate the TyG index in T2DM patients and to correlate the relationship of the TyG index with the presence of DR, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 125 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A detailed history was taken, and a thorough clinical examination was performed. Fasting triglyceride and fasting blood sugar levels were measured to calculate the TyG index. Urine microalbumin was measured for the evaluation of diabetic nephropathy. Peripheral neuropathy was evaluated by testing sensory perceptions of light touch, temperature, pain, and vibration sense, along with the presence or absence of ankle jerk. The fundus was visualized using an ophthalmoscope for DR. Result A total of 125 subjects were studied, which included 71 (56.8%) males and 54 (43.2%) females. The average age of the participants was 61.23 years, with the age ranging from 25 to 90 years. The mean duration of diabetes in this study was 7.8 years. Out of 125 participants, 51 (40.8%) had DR, 62 (49.6%) had microalbuminuria, and 66 (52.8%) had peripheral neuropathy. The mean value of TyG was 9.2449. The TyG index showed significant correlation with DR, microalbuminuria, and peripheral neuropathy. It was also found that there was a significant correlation between the duration of diabetes and the development of diabetic neuropathy. Conclusion The TyG index correlated positively with DR, peripheral neuropathy, and microalbuminuria.