Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a frequent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and contributes substantially to foot-related morbidity, particularly in regions with a high disease burden, such as the United Arab Emirates. A retrospective cross-sectional analysis published in Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare evaluated clinical patterns in DPN, focusing on differences based on protective foot sensation status.

A total of 387 individuals with T2DM and confirmed DPN, treated at University Hospital Sharjah between 2019 and 2024, were included. Clinical variables were retrieved from institutional records. Based on sensory assessment, participants were classified into two categories: loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and reduced protective sensation (RPS). Comparative analyses across groups were conducted using standard statistical approaches, including t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models.

Loss of protective sensation was identified in 45% of the cohort, while 55% had reduced sensation. Distinct clinical patterns emerged between the two groups. Individuals with LOPS showed differences across several parameters, including tobacco use, presence of active foot ulcers, prior amputation, severity of chronic kidney disease, lipid abnormalities, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels.

Regression analysis demonstrated that smoking (OR 38.91), previous ulceration (OR 3.35), amputation (OR 3.46), and advanced chronic kidney disease (OR 6.04) were significantly associated with LOPS (all p < 0.01). In addition, LOPS was linked with a higher occurrence of renal dysfunction, dyslipidemia, foot complications, and osteomyelitis. These findings emphasize the clinical relevance of recognizing high-risk profiles to enable timely and targeted management in DPN.