Evaluation of clinical neuropathy in diabetes: use and limitations of biothesiometer

Abstract

The usefulness of biothesiometrv (BM) in evaluation of peripheral neuropathy was assessed in this study in 149 non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. The results were analysed separately in those with > 50 years and < 50 years of 1 age as the BM readings were known to 1 vary with age in normal individuals also. Duration of diabetes showed significant correlation with BM readings on i great toe; but not at the ankle. There < was no correlation found with the plasma glucose and HbAl values and also with subjective neurological symptoms. There was correlation with objective clinical findings of peripheral neuropathy. After control of hyperglycaemia, BM readings improved significantly at the ankle; but not at the great toe. Quantification of the vibratory sen sory threshold is possible by biothesiometry and is a sensitive index. BM readings can change in a short period with acute reduction in blood glucose; similar to those seen in nerve conduction velocities. However, further studies are required to determine the correlation of changes in BM readings with those in nerve conduction studies.