Micro- and Macrovascular Disease in Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes is characterized by early and extensive involvement of the vascular system and affects both the micro- and macrocirculation. Changes in the micro- and macrocirculation, both anatomical and functional, contribute to the development of diabetic neuropathy. On the other hand, the development of diabetic neuropathy also affects the vasodilatory capacity of the microcirculation. Thus, the interaction between changes in the vasculature and peripheral nerves is bidirectional and results in changes in both blood flow and neuronal function. The possible links between diabetic micro- and macrovascular alterations and nerve damage will be the focus of this chapter.