Liver fibrosis and DPN are common complications in T2DM, yet their interrelationship remains underexplored. In this cross-sectional study, 86 T2DM patients with hepatic steatosis underwent DPN assessment, with liver fibrosis evaluated using non-invasive scores (FIB-4, NFS, AST/ALT ratio, APRI) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) via Fibroscan^® in a subgroup.
Results showed that patients with DPN had higher FIB-4 and AST/ALT scores and increased LSM values, with significant correlations between DPN severity (Michigan Diabetic Neuropathy Score) and LSM (Rho = 0.304, P = 0.026). Abnormal vibration perception at the great toe and impaired reflexes were more frequent in individuals with LSM ≥ 7 kPa. Combining high fibrosis risk scores with abnormal neurological signs strongly predicted DPN.
These findings suggest that in T2DM patients with MASLD, simple clinical tests for vibration and reflexes, when used alongside fibrosis risk indicators, may serve as effective screening tools for DPN. The study supports a combined “high-risk fibrosis + abnormal neurological sign” model, emphasizing early identification and monitoring of neuropathy in this population.
The work entitled “Liver fibrosis and diabetic peripheral neuropathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: an observational, cross-sectional study” was published on Metabolism and Target Organ Damage (published on Dec. 11, 2025).
DOI：10.20517/mtod.2025.89