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Diabetic truncal neuropathy presenting as abdominal hernia
1Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University, School of Medicine, New Orleans 70112.
Neurology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Diabetic truncal neuropathy can mimic abdominal hernias in patients with type II diabetes. Early diagnosis via EMG can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Type II diabetes mellitus is a common condition associated with various complications.
- Abdominal wall protrusions are often presumed to be hernias, prompting investigation.
Observation:
- Two patients with type II diabetes presented with unilateral abdominal wall protrusions.
- One patient experienced burning pain and hyperpathia; the other had a painless protrusion.
- Electromyography (EMG) revealed denervation in paraspinal and abdominal muscles in one patient during the acute phase.
Findings:
- The abdominal wall protrusions resolved spontaneously within 2-4 months in both patients.
- The clinical presentation mimicked abdominal hernias but was attributed to diabetic truncal neuropathy.
- EMG examination of paraspinal and abdominal muscles facilitated diagnosis.
Implications:
- Diabetic truncal neuropathy is an underrecognized cause of abdominal wall protrusion.
- Increased awareness can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive investigations.
- EMG is a valuable tool for diagnosing this rare diabetic complication.