Clinical characteristics of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a retrospective descriptive study

Abstract

Background – Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes, particularly in regions with high disease prevalence, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aims to describe the clinical characteristics of patients with DPN and compare differences in patient profiles according to the status of protective foot sensation. Methods – This retrospective cross-sectional study included 387 patients with Type 2 diabetes diagnosed with DPN at University Hospital Sharjah (UHS) between 2019 and 2024. Data were extracted from medical records. Patients were grouped by protective sensation status and compared using t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Results – Among the cohort, 45% had Loss of Protective sensation(LOPS) and 55% had reduced protective sensation (RPS). Significant differences were observed in smoking status, active ulcers, amputation, Chronic Kidney Disease severity, lipid profile, and HbA1c levels. Multivariable regression analysis identified smoking (OR = 38.91), ulcer history (OR = 3.35), amputation (OR = 3.46), and severe CKD (OR = 6.04) as predictors of LOPS (all p<0.01). Conclusion – This study confirms prior findings on DPN and highlights new associations related to loss of protective sensation. Patients with LOPS had higher rates of smoking, renal dysfunction, dyslipidemia, foot complications, and osteomyelitis. Smoking, ulcer or amputation history, and advanced CKD were significantly associated with LOPS. These findings emphasize the need for early detection and targeted interventions to prevent DPN progression.