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Quantitative vibration perception testing in elderly people: an assessment of variability
F J Thomson1, E A Masson, A J Boulton
1Manchester Royal Infirmary.
Age and Ageing
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Quantitative sensory function tests, like the Biothesiometer, show high variability in elderly individuals. These tests are unreliable for screening neuropathy in older adults, suggesting clinical exams are better.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Quantitative sensory function (QSF) testing is used to assess neuropathy.
- Reliability of QSF testing in elderly populations requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reliability of vibration perception threshold (VPT) measurements using the Biothesiometer in elderly convalescent subjects.
- To compare the variability of consecutive versus sequential VPT readings.
Main Methods:
- Vibration perception threshold was measured using the Biothesiometer in 20 elderly convalescent subjects.
- Measurements included three consecutive readings and 18 sequential readings over seven days.
- Variability was quantified using the coefficient of variation.
Main Results:
- High variability was observed in consecutive VPT readings (e.g., right great toe median 15%).
- Sequential readings exhibited significantly higher variability than consecutive readings (e.g., right great toe median 26% vs. 15%).
- These findings indicate poor test-retest reliability for VPT in this population.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative sensory function tests, including Biothesiometer VPT, are unreliable for elderly individuals, even without acute illness.
- Clinical examination or electrophysiological tests are recommended for neuropathy screening in the elderly.
- Further research into reliable sensory testing methods for older adults is warranted.