Diabetic neuropathy and microcirculation

Over the last decade, there has been extensive research and some controvers y over the pathogenesis of human diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Although t he exact etiology remains unknown, there is considerable evidence to implic ate abnormalities of the microcirculation in its development and progressio n. On the other hand, it is well known that neuropathy itself is associated with abnormal regulation in the microcirculation, as reflected by both imp aired reflex vasoconstriction and impaired vasodilation to ischemia and inj ury These abnormalities may be important in the genesis of neuropathic foot ulceration, Unraveling the precise relationship between neuropathy and mic rovascular structure and function may thus be of considerable importance in the prevention of foot complications and the development of any therapeuti c strategies to benefit already established neuropathy and foot ulceration.