Serum adenosine deaminase and C-reactive protein in diabetic patients with and without neuropathy

Background. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is one major microvascular complication of long-standing diabetes mellitus with a prevalence of 50–60%. DPN leads to decreased quality of life, increased morbidity, and mortality. C reactive protein (CRP) and adenosine deaminase (ADA) are independent inflammatory markers; the current study aims to evaluate and compare serum ADA, CRP in diabetic patients with and without neuropathy. Methods. A prospective study was done on 160 diabetic patients with and without neuropathy who visited the Medicine Department of Kasturba Hospital Manipal. Patients were grouped into two: diabetics with neuropathy (n = 80) and without neuropathy (n = 80). Serum samples were collected and analyzed for CRP and ADA. Results. The data were analyzed using the independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. There was a significantly high level of ADA (P = 0.032) in neuropathy patients when compared with the non-DPN group. No significant difference was seen in CRP levels (P = 0.123) in DPN patients compared to non-DPN patients. Conclusion. Monitoring of inflammatory markers like ADA in diabetic patients can provide insight into preventing DPN and its associated complications.