Low serum phosphate and magnesium levels are associated with peripheral neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract Aims To determine the relationship of serum phosphate, serum magnesium and peripheral nerve function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods A total of 254 patients diagnosed with T2DM were included. Peripheral nerve function was evaluated by nerve conduction study with the use of electromyography. Composite z scores of conduction velocity, latency, and amplitude were constructed, respectively. Demographic, medical and laboratory data including serum phosphate and magnesium were collected. Results Serum phosphate and serum magnesium levels were significantly lower in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) (P  Conclusion Lower serum phosphate and magnesium significantly correlated with parameters of nerve conduction in T2DM patients. Serum phosphate and magnesium might underlie the pathophysiologic features of DPN.