Reduced serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and distal symmetric polyneuropathy

Overview

This study found that lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are significantly associated with distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A nonlinear relationship was observed between vitamin D levels and the severity of DSPN, with a critical threshold identified at approximately 26.1 ng/mL.

Background

Distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), affecting a significant proportion of patients. Identifying a clinically significant cutoff for vitamin D levels could aid in early detection and management of DSPN.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Individuals with DSPN had significantly lower serum 25(OH)D levels compared to non-DSPN individuals (23.95 ± 5.14 vs. 32.31 ± 5.97 ng/mL, P < 0.001).
• There was a significant downward trend in the risk of DSPN with increasing 25(OH)D levels (P for trend < 0.001).
• A nonlinear relationship was observed between 25(OH)D levels and the severity of DSPN, with a turning point at approximately 26.1 ng/mL.
• As 25(OH)D levels dropped below 26.1 ng/mL, the severity of DSPN increased significantly.
• Multivariable logistic regression confirmed that 25(OH)D had an independent protective effect against DSPN.
• Propensity score matching validated the findings regarding the association between vitamin D levels and DSPN.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider monitoring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in patients with type 2 diabetes to assess the risk of distal symmetric polyneuropathy. Identifying patients with levels below 26.1 ng/mL may facilitate early intervention and management strategies.

Conclusion

The study highlights the inverse association between serum 25(OH)D levels and the risk and severity of distal symmetric polyneuropathy in type 2 diabetes. These findings suggest that vitamin D levels could serve as a useful clinical indicator for assessing neuropathy risk.

Related Resources & Content

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7. 12. Retinopathy, Neuropathy, and Foot Care: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026
8. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, immune-inflammatory indices, and electrophysiological diabetic peripheral neuropathy in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients requiring short-term intensive insulin therapy | European Journal of Medical Research | Springer Nature Link
9. Frontiers | Association of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with indicators of target organ damage in patients with diabetes: a cross-sectional study