Correlation between Serum Phosphate, Serum Magnesium levels and Severity of Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most prevalent microvascular complications of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While magnesium and phosphate are essential for neuromuscular function, their association with DPN remains underexplored.

Objective: To assess the correlation between serum magnesium and phosphate levels with the severity of DPN in patients with T2DM.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 80 T2DM patients presenting with neuropathic symptoms. Severity of DPN was assessed using the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score (TCNS) and confirmed by nerve conduction studies. Serum magnesium and phosphate levels were measured and analysed against neuropathy severity.

Results: The mean age of participants was 51.77 ± 11.1 years. DPN prevalence was 75%, with significant associations found between neuropathy severity and reduced serum magnesium (p=0.001), phosphate levels (p=0.003), higher HbA1c (p<0.001), older age (p<0.001), male gender (p=0.003), and longer diabetes duration (p=0.001). Magnesium demonstrated a stronger predictive value for DPN severity than phosphate.

Conclusion: Serum magnesium and phosphate levels inversely correlate with DPN severity in T2DM. Serum magnesium may serve as a better predictive marker. Routine screening of these electrolytes could aid in early detection and management of DPN.