Mechanisms of Diabetic Neuropathies and Antioxidant Therapy

Background: Diabetic neuropathy is very common and affects half of patients with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is the leading cause of diabetes-related hospital admissions and nontraumatic amputations. Currently, the keys to management are maintaining blood glucose concentration within the normal range and treatment of symptoms. Despite many studies of chronic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, few improvements have been made.

Main Finding: This is a review of the classification of diabetic neuropathy, molecular mechanisms, and treatment options focusing on antioxidants.

Conclusion: As oxidative stress may play a significant role in the pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy, the study of molecular mechanisms by which hyperglycemia induces oxidative stress is important. New targets for disease-modifying drugs could be elucidated.