Chronic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND

This review article describes the chronic complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). The chronic complications of DM are diverse, often progressive and difficult to manage or reverse.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review is to highlight the current concepts in the pathogenic mechanisms of the chronic complications of diabetes mellitus, with a view to educate doctors and specialists on the management of these problems. Timely referral to the multidisciplinary team of each medical facility and tertiary health institutions is encouraged.

METHODS

The review of existing literature in the past fifty years and the management of diabetic patients in the past thirty years as a specialist and research scholar.

CONCLUSION

The molecular mechanisms in the chronic complications of DM are described in this review article. These includes the microvascular and macrovascular changes that occur in DM over many years. Also, the neuropathies are explained. The organ/system specific complications include: cardiovascular, renal, neurological, eye disease, skin changes, and diabetic foot syndrome.