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Blink reflex in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Saly H Elkholy1, Hanan M Hosny, Nevein M Shalaby
1*Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt; †Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt; and Departments of ‡Neurology and §Internal Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
Summary
The blink reflex, specifically the R2C response, effectively detects subclinical cranial nerve damage in type 2 diabetes patients. This electrophysiological test aids in diagnosing early diabetic neuropathy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus frequently causes central nervous system damage.
- Electrophysiological abnormalities are common, even in asymptomatic diabetic patients.
- Diabetic cranial neuropathy is a recognized complication, often subclinical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the blink reflex's utility in identifying subclinical cranial nerve involvement in type 2 diabetes.
- To assess the sensitivity of blink reflex parameters for early neuropathy detection.
Main Methods:
- Studied 40 type 2 diabetes patients (30-60 years) and 20 controls.
- Performed clinical, neurological, and blink reflex assessments.
- Conducted nerve conduction studies for upper and lower limbs.
Main Results:
- Diabetic patients with neuropathy showed prolonged R2C distal latency and reduced amplitudes.
- Changes in R2 correlated with treatment and disease duration.
- In patients without peripheral neuropathy, ulnar nerve studies correlated with blink reflex parameters.
Conclusions:
- The R2C parameter of the blink reflex is highly sensitive.
- Blink reflex testing can aid in diagnosing subclinical diabetic cranial neuropathy.
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