Background
Diabetic neuropathy (DN), a prevalent complication of diabetes, significantly impacts nerve function. Utilizing nerve conduction studies (NCS), this investigation delves into the intricate patterns of neuropathy in diabetic patients. The study aimed to determine the neuropathy pattern and neuropathy types in DN and their relationships with clinical parameters.
Methods
This study employed NCS using the Natus Nicolet Viking Quest electromyography machine. Assessments were conducted on the median, ulnar, tibial, peroneal, superficial peroneal and sural nerves. Abnormal NCS results were determined based on local reference values. Diabetic neuropathy was defined by NCS, disregarding subjective symptoms. Standard NCS was performed to identify abnormalities indicative of demyelination or axonal damage. Neuropathy patterns were classified as mononeuropathy, multiple mononeuropathy, and polyneuropathy. Bilateral NCS were conducted using Ag–AgCl surface electrodes, following a standardized protocol for motor and sensory nerve conduction recordings.
Results
Among participants, 62.69% with NCS-determined diabetic neuropathy (DN) exhibited subjective symptoms, compared to 26.76% without DN. Distal polyneuropathy was predominant in those with DN (49.5%), followed by multiple mononeuropathy (31.1%), unilateral mononeuropathy (10.7%), and bilateral mononeuropathy (8.7%). Mononeuropathies collectively constituted 50.5% of DN cases. Mononeuropathy cases demonstrated demyelination, while polyneuropathy cases exhibited axonal damage or a combination of axonal-demyelination. Comparing combined mononeuropathy to polyneuropathy across types (demyelination vs. axonal-mixed), p = 0.015. Longer diabetes duration correlated with unilateral and multiple mononeuropathy, and polyneuropathy. Significant associations were found between HbA1c and all mononeuropathy and polyneuropathy forms (p < 0.05). Similarly, BMI correlated with all forms of mononeuropathy and polyneuropathy (p < 0.05). The relationships of HbA1c, diabetes duration, and BMI with neuropathy types were significant for axonal and mixed axonal-demyelinating neuropathy (p < 0.05).