DIABETIC ENCEPHALOPATHY: CONCEPT, DEFINITION, AND CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE

Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a chronic, progressive neurological complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) affecting the central nervous system, manifested by cognitive impairment, memory deterioration, and emotional-volitional disturbances. Despite its high prevalence and significant impact on patient quality of life, DE remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in clinical practice worldwide. This systematic review examines the historical evolution of the DE concept, its modern definitions and classification, epidemiological burden, pathogenetic mechanisms, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, and current therapeutic approaches. With the global prevalence of DM projected to reach 783 million by 2045, the medical and socioeconomic relevance of DE is becoming increasingly critical. Early detection through standardized neuropsychological screening and neuroimaging is essential to prevent irreversible cognitive decline and dementia.