Change in Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio and Risk of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Cohort Study

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess association between change in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and the risk of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in type 2 diabetes mellitus. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed, which included 185 individuals with type 2 diabetes. At baseline, and at two-year follow-up, we collected basic data, recorded symptoms and signs of DPN, measured biochemical indicators, composite motor nerve conduction velocity (composite MCV), and composite sensory nerve conduction velocity (composite SCV). RESULTS: Changes of composite SCV, MCV and TCSS among different changes in UACR in patients without DPN and with DPN were not significantly different. An increase in UACR ≥30% (OR 3.059, 95%; CI: 1.012–9.249) suggested a risk for new-onset DPN. Based on ROC curve analysis, the areas under the curve were 0.654 ± 0.066 for change of UACR levels in non-DPN patients. CONCLUSION: Change in UACR and NCV was not related in patients without DPN and with DPN; change in UACR ≥30% suggested a risk for new-onset DPN.