Title:Diagnostic Tools, Biomarkers, and Treatments in Diabetic polyneuropathy
and Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy
Volume: 18
Issue: 5
Author(s): Gidon J. Bönhof, Christian Herder and Dan Ziegler*
Affiliation:
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine
University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Endocrinology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital,
Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, Partner Düsseldorf,
München-Neuherberg, Germany
Keywords:
Polyneuropathy, peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy, CAN, neuropathic pain, inflammation, therapy, exercise.
Abstract: The various manifestations of diabetic neuropathy, including distal symmetric sensorimotor
polyneuropathy (DSPN) and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN), are among the
most prevalent chronic complications of diabetes. Major clinical complications of diabetic neuropathies,
such as neuropathic pain, chronic foot ulcers, and orthostatic hypotension, are associated
with considerable morbidity, increased mortality, and diminished quality of life. Despite the substantial
individual and socioeconomic burden, the strategies to diagnose and treat diabetic neuropathies
remain insufficient. This review provides an overview of the current clinical aspects and recent
advances in exploring local and systemic biomarkers of both DSPN and CAN assessed in human
studies (such as biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress) for better understanding of
the underlying pathophysiology and for improving early detection. Current therapeutic options for
DSPN are (I) causal treatment, including lifestyle modification, optimal glycemic control, and multifactorial
risk intervention, (II) pharmacotherapy derived from pathogenetic concepts, and (III)
analgesic treatment against neuropathic pain. Recent advances in each category are discussed, including
non-pharmacological approaches, such as electrical stimulation. Finally, the current therapeutic
options for cardiovascular autonomic complications are provided. These insights should contribute
to a broader understanding of the various manifestations of diabetic neuropathies from both
the research and clinical perspectives.