The Silent Progression Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Patient Awareness, and Clinical Management

Abstract

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a predominant microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, affecting nearly half of all patients over the course of their disease [1]. Despite its prevalence, up to 50% of DPN cases remain asymptomatic in the early stages, making the condition a silent precursor to severe complications, including diabetic foot ulcers and lower extremity amputations [2]. This article reviews the epidemiological burden of DPN, the pronounced deficit in patient awareness regarding nerve health, and the current evidence-based approaches to screening and pharmacological management.