Researchers in Italy have examined how frequently paediatric diabetes centres screen children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a complication that can initially develop without obvious symptoms.
The nationwide survey involved 48 Italian centres affiliated with the ISPED Diabetes Study Group. Researchers found that fewer than one in five responding centres reported carrying out annual screening, while more than 40% said screening was generally initiated only when symptoms appeared.
International paediatric diabetes guidelines recommend regular assessment for peripheral neuropathy because early disease may not produce noticeable symptoms. The Italian findings suggest that organisational procedures and professional training may influence how consistently screening recommendations are implemented.
The study points to the importance of establishing clear clinical pathways for identifying complications at an early stage. Consistent monitoring may help healthcare teams recognise neurological changes before they become more advanced.