U-shaped nonlinear relationship between dietary copper intake and peripheral neuropathy.

BACKGROUND: Dietary copper intake is a promising predictor of peripheral neuropathy. There is no research exploring the potential link between dietary copper intake and peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: The information utilized in our research was collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2004. The relationship between dietary copper intake and peripheral neuropathy was analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS). RESULTS: The RCS analysis results showed a U-shaped nonlinear relationship between dietary copper intake and peripheral neuropathy (P for nonlinearity < 0.001). The threshold effect analysis results indicated that when dietary copper intake was less than 0.889 mg/d, the risk of peripheral neuropathy decreased with increasing copper intake (OR: 0.388, 95% CI: 0.200-0.753). When dietary copper intake was ≥ 0.889 mg/d, the risk of peripheral neuropathy increased with increasing copper intake (OR: 1.129, 95% CI: 1.006-1.266). And the incidence rate of peripheral neuropathy in the first quantile (OR: 1.421, 95% CI: 1.143-1.766), the third quantile (OR: 1.358, 95% CI: 1.057-1.744), and the fourth quantile (OR: 1.676, 95% CI: 1.250-2.248) of dietary copper intake were significantly higher than that in the second quantile (where the inflection point was located). CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that both insufficient and excessive dietary copper intake may be associated with an increased incidence of peripheral neuropathy. However, further research is needed to provide definitive evidence and confirm these findings.

Pharmacovigilance study of the association between peripheral neuropathy and antibody-drug conjugates using the FDA adverse event reporting system.

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are among the fastest-growing classes of anticancer drugs, making it crucial to evaluate their potential for causing peripheral neuropathy. We analyzed data from the FAERS database (January 1, 2014, to June 30, 2023) using disproportionality and Bayesian methods. We identified 3076 cases of ADC-associated peripheral neuropathy. Our study revealed significant signals for all ADCs (ROR 1.82, 95% CI 1.76-1.89). ADCs with tubulin-binding payloads showed significant peripheral neuropathy signals (ROR 2.31, 95% CI 2.23-2.40), whereas those with DNA-targeting (ROR 0.48, 95% CI 0.39-0.59) and topoisomerase 1 inhibitor (ROR 0.56, 95% CI 0.48-0.66) payloads exhibited non-significant signals. Signals for peripheral sensory neuropathy were 4.83, 2.44, 2.74, and 2.21 (calculated based on IC025) for brentuximab vedotin, trastuzumab emtansine, enfortumab vedotin, and polatuzumab vedotin, while signals for peripheral motor neuropathy were 5.31, 0.34, 2.27, and 0.03, respectively. The median time to onset for all ADCs was 127 days (interquartile range 40-457). Tisotumab vedotin had the highest hospitalization rate at 26.67%, followed by brentuximab vedotin at 25.5%. Trastuzumab emtansine had the highest mortality rate ,with 80 deaths (11.96%) among 669 cases. Based on FAERS database, only ADCs with tubulin-binding payloads exhibited significant peripheral neuropathy signals. Brentuximab vedotin and enfortumab vedotin showed similar profiles for peripheral sensory neuropathy and motor neuropathy. Given the delayed time to onset and potentially poor outcomes, ADC-related peripheral neuropathy warrants significant attention.

Peripheral neuropathy and associated factors among children living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in Gamo zone, Southern Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common neurological complication of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) that can significantly affect patients' quality of life. In Ethiopia, children living with HIV are at an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy due to comorbidities such as anemia, tuberculosis, malnutrition, and poor socio-economic status. Our study aims to evaluate the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy among children living with HIV in Ethiopia using a simple clinical screening tool. METHODS: A health institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 148 children aged 5 to 18 years living with HIV who are receiving treatment at the antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic of the randomly selected public health institutions in the Gamo zone. An interview and neurologic examination were conducted. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. Variables with p-value < 0.25 in the bi-variable logistic regression analysis were entered and checked for association in a multivariable logistic regression model. The level of statistical significance was declared at the p-value < 0.05. RESULT: In this study, 148 children participated, making a response rate of 97.5%. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of the respondents was 15.03 ± 2.99 years, and 81(54.7%) were male. The magnitude of PN was 20.9% (31/148). Children in the age category of 15-18 (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.88, 95%CI; 1.24-4.60), low BMI for age (AOR = 1.66, 95%CI; 1.12-4.15), last exposure to isoniazid within 1 year (AOR = 2.31, 95%CI; 1.12-8.53). Longer duration of HIV illness (AOR = 2.17, 95%CI; 1.54-4.64), and past tuberculosis (TB) treatment (AOR = 2.11, 95%CI; 1.08-7.48) were significantly associated factors with peripheral neuropathy. CONCLUSION: Our analysis revealed that being in the age category of 15-18 years, low BMI for age, Isoniazid exposure, longer Duration of HIV illness, and past TB treatment were significantly associated with peripheral neuropathy in children living with HIV. These disease-related factors may contribute to the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy in this population. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

The prevalence and clinical features of leflunomide-associated peripheral neuropathy in patients with rheumatic disease in a New Zealand cohort.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence and clinical features of leflunomide-associated peripheral neuropathy in patients with rheumatic disease over a 42-month observational period between January 1, 2016 and June 30, 2019. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted using regional prescription data identifying all patients treated with leflunomide for rheumatic diseases in the Southern District Health Board of New Zealand. Medical records were used to identify patients who developed peripheral neuropathy while receiving treatment with leflunomide. Demographic characteristics, co-therapies, and additional risk factors for peripheral neuropathy were also recorded. RESULTS: A total of 482 patients were identified as receiving leflunomide for the treatment of rheumatic during the study period. In total, 23 patients developed leflunomide-induced peripheral neuropathy within the cohort giving a prevalence of 4.7%. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) performed in 18 (78.2%) of these patients confirmed a distal axonal, sensory, or sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy. The majority of patients (n = 22; 95.6%) either improved, stabilized, or resolved on cessation of the drug, with or without medication washout. Adverse symptoms were reported in association with peripheral neuropathy in 15 of the 23 patients (65.2%): these included pain, poor sleep, compromised skin integrity, poor balance, and a Charcot-like arthropathy. Additional treatment was required to manage symptoms of peripheral neuropathy including nine patients (39%) who received pain relief. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the previously reported association between leflunomide treatment and the development of a peripheral neuropathy. However, our findings suggest that this is more common than the previous estimates. In patients with psoriatic arthritis and previous tarsitis, there appeared to be an association with a Charcot's-like arthropathy, a complication not previously noted in the literature.

Lifestyle of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with peripheral neuropathy: Phenomenological study.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the lifestyle-related characteristics of people having type 2 diabetes mellitus with peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: The phenomenological study was conducted from July 5 to September 18, 2021, at Sadabuan Health Centre, Batunadua Health Centre and Wek 3 Health Centre, Padangsidimpuan, Indonesia, and comprised diabetic neuropathy patients who had cognitive impairment, anxiety and depression. Data was collected using in-depth interviews. Data was analysed using Collaizi's method. RESULTS: There were 8 subjects with mean age 48.38±13,606 years (range: 27-65 years), and mean duration of diabetes was 6±3.207 years. The majority of participants in this study were women 6 (75%). There were 7 themes that emerged from the collected data: level of physical activity, diet, sleep pattern, habit of consuming sweet drinks, smoking habit, social interaction, and self-care. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes mellitus patient with peripheral neuropathy had not been able to completely switch to a healthier lifestyle.

Peripheral neuropathy and associated factors among type 2 diabetic patients attending referral hospitals in the Amhara region, a multi-center cross-sectional study in Ethiopia.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is one of the diabetes most common microvascular complications. It is very prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa due to a combination of causes, including rising diabetes prevalence, limited healthcare resources, and a lack of access to competent medical care. However, just a few studies have been undertaken in the study area. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Amhara region referral hospitals, in 2022. By using a systematic random sampling technique, a total of 627 respondents were included. The data was entered into EPI Data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 for further analysis. A binary logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between the dependent and predictor variables. The association between predictor variables and the dependent variable was determined using multivariate logistic regression [p value < 0.05, 95% confidence interval]. The overall prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy among the study participants was 48.2% (95% CI; 44.2, 52.1). Aged between 40 and 60 years (AOR = 4:27; 95% CI 2.62, 6.94), and 60 years and older (AOR = 4:47; 95% CI 2.40, 8.35), participants who have lived alone (AOR = 2:14; 95% CI 1.21, 3.79), patients with comorbidity (AOR = 1:83; 95% CI 1.22, 2.76), and being physically inactive (AOR = 1:69; 95% CI 1.14, 2.49) were significantly associated with Diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy was high among diabetic patients. Healthcare providers should prioritize regular screening and early intervention for individuals at higher risk, particularly those aged 40 and above, those living alone, patients with comorbid conditions, and those who are physically inactive. Implementing community-based support programs, encouraging physical activity, and providing comprehensive management plans for diabetes and associated comorbidities can help mitigate the risk and improve the quality of life for these patients.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Gastroesophageal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy for various stages of gastroesophageal cancer (GEC) is often neurotoxic. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) impairs health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study investigates the incidence and severity of CIPN and its association with HRQoL in patients with GEC. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients who received chemoradiotherapy or chemotherapy for GEC were identified from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Patient-reported data (measured using the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 and EORTC QLQ-C30) were collected through the Prospective Observational Cohort Study of Esophageal-Gastric Cancer Patients (POCOP) at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months after treatment initiation. Linear mixed effects models were constructed to assess CIPN and the correlation between CIPN and HRQoL was analyzed using Spearman's correlation. RESULTS: A total of 2,135 patients were included (chemoradiotherapy: 1,593; chemotherapy with curative intent: 295; palliative chemotherapy: 247). In all 3 treatment groups, CIPN significantly increased during treatment (adjusted mean score of CIPN at 6 months: chemoradiotherapy, 8.3 [baseline: 5.5]; chemotherapy with curative intent, 16.0 [baseline: 5.6]; palliative therapy, 25.4 [baseline: 10.7]). For chemoradiotherapy, the adjusted mean score continued to increase after treatment (24 months: 11.2). For chemotherapy with curative intent and palliative therapy, the adjusted mean score of CIPN decreased after treatment but did not return to baseline values. CIPN was negatively correlated with HRQoL in all treatment groups, although significance and strength of the correlation differed over time. CONCLUSIONS: Because of the poor prognosis of GEC, it is essential to consider side effects of (neurotoxic) treatment. The high prevalence and association with HRQoL indicate the need for early recognition of CIPN.

Recent Trends in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Neuropathies: A Retrospective Hospital-based Nationwide Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the trends in the incidence of diabetic neuropathy (DN) and nondiabetic neuropathy (non-DN) in a hospital-based cohort between 2010 and 2019 in Romania. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed cases with a primary or secondary discharge International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, diagnosis code of neuropathy reported throughout Romania. RESULTS: A total of 1 725 729 hospitalizations with a diagnosis of neuropathy (DN, 769 324 - 44.6%, and non-DN, 956 405- 55.4%) were identified. Women accounted for more DN cases (40 0 936- 52.1%), and men accounted for more non-DN cases (63 7 968- 61.0%). The incidence rate showed an increasing trend during the index period, by a mean rate of 4.3%/year for non-DN and 1.4%/year for DN. Type 2 diabetes was responsible for the overall increase in the incidence rate of DN, whereas in type 1 diabetes, the incidence rate decreased; in both types of diabetes, diabetic polyneuropathy was predominant, whereas autonomic neuropathy had an incidence rate of 10 to 20 times lower than polyneuropathy. The incidence rates of non-DNs increased mainly due to inflammatory polyneuropathies (+3.8%) and uremic neuropathy (+10.3%). CONCLUSION: Using a nationally representative database of hospital-admitted cases, we found that the incidence rates of DN and non-DN increased from 2010 to 2019. The main contributors were type 2 diabetes, inflammatory polyneuropathy, and uremic neuropathy.

Prevalence and predictors for cisplatin-induced toxicities in Zimbabwean women with cervical cancer.

Aim: To describe treatment-induced toxicities (TITs) and associated factors in Zimbabwean cancer patients receiving cisplatin.Methods: In total, 252 Zimbabwean women with cervical cancer, receiving cisplatin were followed up over 12 months for TITs and disease status.Results: Peripheral neuropathy (70%) and ototoxicity (53%) were most prevalent. Advanced disease (OR = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.1-1.5; p = 0.02), pain comedications (OR = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.1-1.5; p = 0.03), alcohol (OR = 2.8; 95% CI = 1.1-7.5; p = 0.04) and comorbidities (OR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.1-1.4; p = 0.04) increased peripheral neuropathy and ototoxicity risk. Older age increased risk of disease progression (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.4-3.0; p = 0.033).Conclusion: High peripheral neuropathy and ototoxicity prevalence were observed, which are not routinely monitored in Zimbabwe. There is a need for capacity building to incorporate comprehensive TIT testing and optimize cancer care in Zimbabwe.

Cancer treatment has side effects, also known as treatment-induced toxicities (TITs), that can lead to death if not management properly. African populations are more likely to develop TITs, however, not many studies research on TITs in Africans and why they are more prone to TITs. This study followed up 252 Zimbabwean women with cervical cancer, over 12 months for TITs and found that loss of sensation and ear complications most commonly occurred after treatment. Advanced disease, prescribed pain medication, alcohol consumption history and underlying diseases such as diabetes increased likelihood of TITs, while older age increased risk of unresponsive cancer. This study highlights a need to incorporate comprehensive monitoring for TITs for at-risk individuals toward improving cancer care.

Cardiovascular autonomic and peripheral sensory neuropathy in women with obesity.

Introduction: A higher incidence of neural dysfunction in people with obesity has been described. We determined the prevalence of neuropathic lesions in obese women and evaluated their potential association with anthropometric and laboratory parameters. Patients and methods: In our cross-sectional study, we enrolled female patients with obesity and without diabetes before obesity treatment. Voluntary female subjects were controls with a normal body mass index (BMI). Autonomic function was assessed by Ewing's cardiovascular reflex tests, while comprehensive peripheral neuropathic assessments were conducted utilizing the Neurometer®, Tiptherm®, Monofilament®, and Rydel-Seiffer tuning fork tests. Sudomotor function was assessed by the Neuropad®-test. Body composition was examined using the InBody 770. Results: 71 patients (mean ± SD; age: 36.1 ± 8.3 years; BMI: 40.2 ± 8.5 kg/m2) and 36 controls (age: 36.4 ± 13.3 years; BMI: 21.6 ± 2.1 kg/m2) were enrolled. Patients had significantly higher systolic (patients vs. controls; 137.5 ± 16.9 vs. 114.6 ± 14.8 mmHg, p<0.001) and diastolic (83.0 ± 11.7 vs.69.8 ± 11.2 mmHg, p<0.001) blood pressure compared to controls. Among autonomic tests, only the heart rate response to Valsalva maneuver (Valsalva-ratio) revealed significant impairment in patients (1.4 ± 0.2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.4, p<0.001). Neurometer® at the median nerve revealed increased current perception threshold (CPT) values at all stimulating frequencies in patients (CPT at 2000 Hz: 204.6 ± 70.9 vs. 168.1 ± 66.9, p=0.013; 250 Hz: 84.4 ± 38.9 vs. 56.5 ± 34.8, p<0.001; CPT at 5 Hz: 58.5 ± 31.2 vs 36.9 ± 29.1, p<0.001). The Rydel-Seiffer tuning fork test has revealed a significant impairment of vibrational sensing on the lower limb in patients (right hallux: 6.8 ± 0.9 vs. 7.4 ± 0.8, p=0.030; left hallux: 6.9 ± 0.8 vs. 7.3 ± 0.9, p=0.029). The Neuropad® testing showed a significant impairment of sudomotor function in women with obesity. A negative correlation was found in patients between BMI and the 25-hydroxy-D3/D2-vitamin levels (r=-0.41, p=0.00126) and a positive correlation between the BMI and resting systolic blood pressure (r=0.26, p=0.0325). Conclusion: Peripheral sensory neuronal and sudomotor function impairments were detected in female patients with obesity compared to the controls with normal BMI. Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction was also revealed by the Valsalva-ratio in these patients, suggesting the presence of parasympathetic dysfunction. The negative correlation between BMI and the 25-hydroxy-D3/D2-vitamin highlights the potential deficiency of vitamin D in the population affected by obesity.

Peripheral neuropathy in patients with gout, beyond focal nerve compression: a cross-sectional study.

Neuropathies secondary to tophus compression in gout patients are well known; however, limited data exist on other types of peripheral neuropathies (PN). Our aim was to describe PN frequency, characteristics, distribution, patterns, and associated factors in gout patients through clinical evaluation, a PN questionnaire, and nerve conduction studies (NCS). This cross-sectional descriptive study included consecutive gout patients (ACR/EULAR 2015 criteria) from our clinic. All underwent evaluation by Rheumatology and Rehabilitation departments, with IRB approval. Based on NCS, patients were categorized as PN + (presence) or PN- (absence). PN + patients were further classified as local peripheral neuropathy (LPN) or generalized somatic peripheral neuropathy (GPN). We enrolled 162 patients, 98% male (72% tophaceous gout). Mean age (SD): 49.4 (12) years; mean BMI: 27.9 (6.0) kg/m2. Comorbidities included dyslipidemia (53%), hypertension (28%), and obesity (23.5%). Abnormal NCS: 65% (n = 106); 52% LPN, 48% GPN. PN + patients were older, had lower education, and severe tophaceous gout. GPN patients were older, had lower education, and higher DN4 scores compared to LPN or PN- groups (p = 0.05); other risk factors were not significant. Over half of gout patients experienced neuropathy, with 48% having multiplex mononeuropathy or polyneuropathy. This was associated with joint damage and functional impairment. Mechanisms and risk factors remain unclear. Early recognition and management are crucial for optimizing clinical outcomes and quality of life in these patients. Key Points Peripheral neuropathies in gout patients had been scarcely reported and studied. This paper report that: • PN in gout is more frequent and more diverse than previously reported. • Mononeuropathies are frequent, median but also ulnar, peroneal and tibial nerves could be injured. • Unexpected, generalized neuropathies (polyneuropathy and multiplex mononeuropathy) are frequent and associated to severe gout. • The direct role of hyperuricemia /or gout in peripheral nerves require further studies.

Obesity-related neuropathy: the new epidemic.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To examine the evidence evaluating the association between obesity and neuropathy as well as potential interventions. RECENT FINDINGS: Although diabetes has long been associated with neuropathy, additional metabolic syndrome components, including obesity, are increasingly linked to neuropathy development, regardless of glycemic status. Preclinical rodent models as well as clinical studies are shedding light on the mechanisms of obesity-related neuropathy as well as challenges associated with slowing progression. Dietary and surgical weight loss and exercise interventions are promising, but more data is needed. SUMMARY: High-fat-diet rodent models have shown that obesity-related neuropathy is a product of excess glucose and lipid accumulation leading to inflammation and cell death. Clinical studies consistently demonstrate obesity is independently associated with neuropathy; therefore, likely a causal risk factor. Dietary weight loss improves neuropathy symptoms but not examination scores. Bariatric surgery and exercise are promising interventions, but larger, more rigorous studies are needed. Further research is also needed to determine the utility of weight loss medications and ideal timing for obesity interventions to prevent neuropathy.

Prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, amputation, and quality of life in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Peripheral neuropathy and amputation are common complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) that significantly impact the quality of life of the affected individuals. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, the level of amputation, and the quality of life in patients with DM. This cross-sectional study was conducted after approval of the synopsis involving 225 diagnosed patients with DM on pre-defined eligibility criteria, selected from public sector OPDs, specialized diabetes centres, and centres manufacturing orthotics and prosthetics. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and the administration of the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument and the Asian Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire. The level of amputation was recorded for each participant. Data was entered into SPSS, and results were synthesized. Pearson correlation is applied to find an association between gender and the quality of life of the participants, while P ≤ 0.05 will be considered significant. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in a sample of 225, based on a self-administered questionnaire, was (44.4%), and in terms of foot examination was (51.1%). As people progressed in age, the prevalence increased to 20.0% in patients above 60 years and 8.9% in ≤ 35 years of age. The majority of participants (56.0%) have had DM for less than five years. Females were 57.8% of the study population, while 97.8% of participants had type II DM. Below-knee amputation of the right limb was observed in 22(9.8%) of the participants. The QoL was poor in the majority of the participants (96.9%) patients with DM (P = 0.638 and T = -0.471). This cross-sectional study highlights a high prevalence of peripheral neuropathy and amputation and poor QoL in patients with diabetic mellitus.

Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and pain in pediatric oncology patients: impact of combination therapies.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and associated pain are prevalent adverse effects of pediatric cancer treatment, significantly affecting the patient's quality of life. Their impact and risk factors have yet to be assessed in our country. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of CIPN, as well as to explore associations with patient- and treatment-related variables, within a cohort of Argentinean pediatric oncology patients. Sixty-six patients diagnosed with malignant hematopoietic tumors and receiving the neurotoxic agent vincristine were included in this observational study. Variables analyzed included age, gender, anthropometric measurements, tumor type, chemotherapy treatment, development of pain and other symptoms, severity, and analgesic treatment. The study population consisted of 39 boys and 27 girls. Most patients received two or three neurotoxic drugs. Symptoms consistent with CIPN were identified in 15 children, reflecting a prevalence of 23%. The main symptom was pain in the lower limbs, with some patients reporting jaw or generalized body pain. Pain was categorized as moderate or severe in 60% and 27% of cases, respectively. NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, and/or opioids were prescribed. Among the patient- and treatment-related variables analyzed as potential risk factors, the use of vincristine in conjunction with cytarabine and the administration of a higher number of neurotoxic drugs demonstrated significant association with the development of CIPN. CONCLUSIONS: Combination therapy stands out as a risk factor for clinical CIPN. The high prevalence of moderate/severe pain underscores the importance of close vigilance given its potential to compromise the patient's overall well-being. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent adverse effect and dose-limiting factor in pediatric cancer treatment. • Prevalence varies among regions and risk factors are still under study. WHAT IS NEW: • Prevalence of symptomatic CIPN is 23% among pediatric patients undergoing treatment for hematopoietic tumors in a referral hospital in Argentina. Most patients report moderate or severe pain. • Combining vincristine with cytarabine and using a higher number of neurotoxic drugs in combination therapies exhibit significant association with the development of CIPN-related symptoms.

Risk of peripheral neuropathy in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. A prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Laboratory and clinical data suggest a link between neurologically mediated inflammation and psoriasis, but the risk and features of peripheral neuropathy in psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis remain unknown. The aim of this exploratory study was to evaluate the risk and to describe the features of peripheral neuropathy in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. METHODS: One hundred patients with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis and 100 control subjects were consecutively enrolled. Diagnostic confirmation included electrophysiological examination, skin biopsy, and nerve ultrasound for confirmed polyneuropathy. RESULTS: Nine patients were diagnosed with confirmed polyneuropathy, while none of the control subjects had the condition (relative risk [RR] = 19.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12-322.11). Specific relative risks for polyneuropathy were 22.09 (95% CI = 1.17-416.43) in psoriasis patients and 18.75 (95% CI = 1.07-327.62) in psoriatic arthritis patients. The observed polyneuropathy in all nine patients was length-dependent, symmetrical, and predominantly sensory, with minimal or no disability. Comorbidities and exposure to therapies known to increase the risk of polyneuropathy were more frequent in psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis patients compared to controls (42% vs. 4%, p = .0001). Analyzing data after excluding possible contributory causes, the risk of polyneuropathy in patients with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis was not significant. DISCUSSION: Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis appear to be associated with an increased risk of polyneuropathy. This increased risk seems to be linked to the higher prevalence of contributing factors for polyneuropathy, rather than a direct increase in neuropathy risk specifically related to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Impact of exercise on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in survivors with post-treatment primary breast cancer.

PURPOSE: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating side effect of neurotoxic chemotherapy. Exercise activates neuromuscular function and may improve CIPN. We examined the association between exercise and CIPN symptoms in breast cancer survivors. METHODS: In a retrospective cross-sectional study, we included patients completing a survey assessing exercise exposure and neuropathy symptoms in a tertiary cancer center survivorship clinic. We evaluated exercise duration and intensity using a standardized questionnaire quantified in metabolic equivalent tasks (MET-h/wk). We defined exercisers as patients meeting the National Physical Activity Guidelines' criteria. We used multivariable logistic regressions to examine the relationship between exercise and CIPN and if this differed as a function of chemotherapy regimen adjusting for age, gender, and race. RESULTS: We identified 5444 breast cancer survivors post-chemotherapy (median age 62 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 55, 71); median 4.7 years post-chemotherapy (IQR: 3.3, 7.6)) from 2017 to 2022. CIPN overall prevalence was 34% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 33%, 36%), 33% for non-taxane, and 37% for taxane-based chemotherapy. CIPN prevalence was 28% (95% CI: 26%, 30%) among exercisers and 38% (95% CI: 37%, 40%) among non-exercisers (difference 11%; 95% CI: 8%, 13%; p < 0.001). Compared to patients with low (<6 MET-h/wk) levels of exercise (42%), 11% fewer patients with moderate (6-20.24 MET-h/wk) to high (>20.25 MET-h/wk) levels of exercise reported CIPN. Exercise was associated with reduced prevalence of all CIPN symptoms regardless of chemotherapy type. CONCLUSION: CIPN may persist several years following chemotherapy among patients with breast cancer but is significantly reduced by exercise in a dose-dependent manner.

The associations of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy, sociodemographic characteristics, and clinical characteristics with time to fall in older adults with colorectal cancer.

Our purpose was to investigate the associations between falls and oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN), sociodemographic characteristics, and clinical characteristics of older patients with colorectal cancer. The study population consisted of older adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer whose data were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database combined with Medicare claims. We defined OIPN using specific (OIPN 1) and broader (OIPN 2) definitions of OIPN, based on diagnosis codes. Extensions of the Cox regression model to accommodate repeated events were used to obtain overall hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs and the cumulative hazard of fall. The unadjusted risk of fall for colorectal cancer survivors with versus without OIPN 1 at 36 months of follow-up was 19.6% versus 14.3%, respectively. The association of OIPN with time to fall was moderate (for OIPN 1, HR = 1.37; 95% CI, 1.04-1.79) to small (for OIPN 2, HR = 1.24; 95% CI, 1.01-1.53). Memantine, opioids, cannabinoids, prior history of fall, female sex, advanced age and disease stage, chronic liver disease, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease all increased the hazard rate of falling. Incorporating fall prevention in cancer care is essential to minimize morbidity and mortality of this serious event in older survivors of colorectal cancer.

Development and validation of a risk nomogram model for predicting peripheral neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Objective: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy frequently occurs and presents severely in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus, representing a significant complication. The objective of this research was to develop a risk nomogram for DPN, ensuring its internal validity and evaluating its capacity to predict the condition. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, Suqian First Hospital's cohort from January 2021 to June 2022 encompassed 397 individuals diagnosed with T2DM. A random number table method was utilized to allocate these patients into two groups for training and validation, following a 7:3 ratio. By applying univariate and multivariable logistic regression, predictive factors were refined to construct the nomogram. The model's prediction accuracy was assessed through metrics like the ROC area, HL test, and an analysis of the calibration curve. DCA further appraised the clinical applicability of the model. Emphasis was also placed on internal validation to confirm the model's dependability and consistency. Results: Out of 36 evaluated clinicopathological characteristics, a set of four, duration, TBIL, TG, and DPVD, were identified as key variables for constructing the predictive nomogram. The model exhibited robust discriminatory power, evidenced by an AUC of 0.771 (95% CI: 0.714-0.828) in the training cohort and an AUC of 0.754 (95% CI: 0.663-0.845) in the validation group. The congruence of the model's predictions with actual findings was corroborated by the calibration curve. Furthermore, DCA affirmed the clinical value of the model in predicting DPN. Conclusion: This research introduces an innovative risk nomogram designed for the prediction of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. It offers a valuable resource for healthcare professionals to pinpoint those at elevated risk of developing this complication. As a functional instrument, it stands as a viable option for the prognostication of DPN in clinical settings.

Sensorineural hearing loss among type 2 diabetic patients and its association with peripheral neuropathy: a cross-sectional study from a lower middle-income country.

INTRODUCTION: Despite potential links between diabetes and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), routine hearing assessments for diabetic patients are not standard practice. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence of SNHL and its association with diabetes-related factors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetes Clinic, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan, from May to September 2021. A total of 396 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria participated after informed consent. Data collection involved a sociodemographic profile, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument examination followed by pure-tone audiometry and laboratory tests including haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c). HL was defined using better ear four-frequency pure-tone average of ≥26 dB HL and graded as per WHO criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. χ2, independent t-test and multinomial logistic regression analyses were applied. P<0.05 at 95% CI was considered significant. RESULTS: Our study revealed a high prevalence of SNHL among patients with T2DM. Mild HL was seen in 55.8%, while 18.7% suffered from moderate HL. Common audiological symptoms included difficulty understanding speech in noisy surroundings (44.2%), balance problems (42.9%), sentence repetition (35.9%), tinnitus (32.3%) and differentiating consonants (31.1%). Hearing impairment predominantly affected low (0.25-0.5 kHz) and high (4-8 kHz) frequencies with a significant difference at 4 kHz among both sexes (t (394)=2.8, p=0.004). Peripheral neuropathy was significantly associated with SNHL on multinomial logistic regression after adjusting with age, sex, body mass index and the presence of any comorbidities. Diabetes duration, HbA1c or family history of diabetes was found unrelated to SNHL severity. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the substantial prevalence of SNHL among patients with T2DM and emphasises the importance of targeted audiological care as part of a holistic approach to diabetes management. Addressing HL early may significantly improve communication and overall quality of life.