Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: Case Studies

Three case reports in this article illustrate the diagnostic methods used and the treatment course encountered for many patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Each case addresses an aspect of DPNP: pain that appears to be refractory to initial therapy, DPNP occurring with other medical conditions, and nondiabetic neuropathy occurring in patients with diabetes mellitus. Together, these cases bring clarity to the confusing clinical experience for patients who have decreased sensation in combination with burning pain, and they apply the consensus guidelines for DPNP. Recently approved medications by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of DPNP offer hope for many patients whose pain was thought to be refractory to treatment.