Correlation of Serum Adiponectin Levels with the Severity of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and contributes significantly to morbidity and reduced quality of life. Adiponectin is an adipocyte-derived hormone with anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing, and antioxidant properties. Alterations in adiponectin levels have been associated with metabolic abnormalities and diabetic complications. However, its relationship with the severity of DPN remains unclear. The present study aimed to evaluate the correlation between serum adiponectin levels and the severity of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in patients with T2DM.Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among patients with T2DM attending Department of Neurology. Clinical and biochemical parameters were recorded, and serum adiponectin levels were estimated using an appropriate immunoassay method. The presence and severity of DPN were assessed using a validated neuropathy assessment scale. Participants were categorized according to neuropathy severity. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests. The correlation between serum adiponectin levels and neuropathy severity was assessed using pearson’s correlation coefficient, as appropriate. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: Serum adiponectin levels significantly decreased in T2DM with neuropathy when compared to T2DM without neuropathy (P=0.001**). There was significant direct inverse correlation with BMI, glycated and lipid indices, neuropathy severity score (P=0.001**). Conclusion: Serum adiponectin levels may be associated with the severity of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in patients with T2DM and may have potential utility as a biomarker for assessment of neuropathy severity