Differential Impact of Metabolic Factors and Comorbidities on Peripheral Neuropathy.

Overview

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the impact of metabolic factors and comorbidities on peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: Qatari nationals and long-term residents from the Qatar Biobank underwent clinical/metabolic assessments, including iDXA to measure visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) volumes, inflammation, thyroid function, carotid intima media thickness (CIMT), corneal confocal microscopy (CCM), vibration perception threshold (VPT), and DN4 questionnaire. RESULTS: In 332 adults aged 43.4 ± 12.7 years, the prevalence of neuropathy was 3.9%. The prevalence of T2D was 16.6%, and the prevalence of neuropathy was significantly higher in T2D (14.5% vs. 1.8%, p < 0.0001). A higher HbA1c (p = 0.05) and lower eGFR (p < 0.01) were associated with reduced inferior whorl length (IWL) and lower FT3 was associated with reduced corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL) (p < 0.01). Triglycerides were associated with increased neuropathic symptoms (p = 0.05). All the risk factors in this study contributed to 39% of neuropathy in T2D but had a minimal impact in those without T2D. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the importance of additional risk factors beyond traditional risk factors associated with peripheral neuropathy in T2D.