A study on the correlation between C - reactive protein and serum ferritin in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and altered iron metabolism, which may contribute to the development and progression of diabetic complications. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum ferritin levels in T2DM patients and their association with glycemic control and diabetic complications. Methods: A total of 100 T2DM patients and 100 non-diabetic controls were included in this cross-sectional study. Serum levels of CRP and ferritin were measured, and their association with glycemic control (HbA1c) and the presence of diabetic complications (neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy) was evaluated. Results: T2DM patients had significantly higher levels of CRP (6.82 ± 4.23 mg/L) and serum ferritin (241.7 ± 96.94 ng/mL) compared to non-diabetic controls (2.64 ± 1.87 mg/L and 199.02 ± 82.7 ng/mL, respectively) (p<0.001 and p=0.022, respectively). A significant positive correlation was found between CRP and serum ferritin levels in T2DM patients (r=0.45, p<0.001). Poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥7%) and the presence of diabetic complications were associated with significantly higher levels of CRP and serum ferritin in T2DM patients (p<0.001 for all). Conclusion:
T2DM patients have significantly higher levels of CRP and serum ferritin compared to non-diabetic controls, and these markers are positively correlated with each other. Poor glycemic control and the presence of diabetic complications are associated with higher levels of CRP and serum ferritin in T2DM patients. These findings suggest that inflammation and iron metabolism may play a role in the pathogenesis of T2DM and its complications.