Diabetic neuropathic cachexia: a case report

INTRODUCTION: We report a case of the rare entity of diabetic neuropathic cachexia, in order to remind clinicians that these cases still exist. CASE PRESENTATION: A 71-year-old Moslem Arab man with type 2 diabetes along with diabetic neuropathic cachexia complicated by a hyperfunctioning autonomous thyroid nodule, and undiagnosed acromegaly came under our care. We report the unique challenges as to what are the priorities to consider in the course of investigation and treatment. This case emphasizes the fast recovery from this remediable disorder, with antineuropathic medication and exogenous insulin to serve as an anabolic hormone on top of its hypoglycemic effect. Shared pathophysiologic aspects of diabetic neuropathic cachexia, cancerous etiologies and acute phase response are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetic neuropathic cachexia is an integral differential diagnosis, whenever an intense neuropathic pain dominates patient complaints, accompanied with anorexia, weight loss as well as mood and sleep disturbances. This is an original case report of interest to internists, endocrinologists, diabetologists and pain clinic practitioners. Raising the suspicion of diabetic neuropathic cachexia early and concomitant to weight loss investigation, might curtail suffering and prompt early recovery from a severe illness that has a good prognosis.