MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Small-diameter nerve fibers represent 70–90% of all peripheral nerve fibers and are believed to be the earliest fibers to be damaged in diabetes (1). Small-fiber injury has also been associated with neuropathic pain (2, 3), which is one of the most disabling symptoms in patients with diabetic neuropathy.

Detailed explanation-2: -Damage of small nerve fibers underlies the symptoms of painful diabetic neuropathy, which is often observed at the early stage of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN). The most common complaint is “burning feet.” The characteristic symptoms include burning, prickling, sharp, stabbing, and aching pain.

Detailed explanation-3: -What causes diabetic neuropathy? Over time, high blood glucose levels, also called blood sugar, and high levels of fats, such as triglycerides, in the blood from diabetes can damage your nerves. High blood glucose levels can also damage the small blood vessels that nourish your nerves with oxygen and nutrients.

Detailed explanation-4: -Neuropathy is one of the long-term complications of diabetes. Over time, high blood glucose (sugar) levels can damage the small blood vessels that supply the nerves in your body. This stops essential nutrients reaching the nerves. As a result, the nerve fibres can become damaged, and they may disappear.