Comparing indices of median nerve among diabetic patients with or without metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among patients with type II diabetes and is reported as a strong risk factor for cardiovascular diseases as well as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The aim of the current study was to compare median nerve indices among diabetic patients with and without metabolic syndrome.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 105 patients with type II diabetes whom participated in the coronary artery disease risk factor study in Kerman, Iran (KERCARDS). Patients with type II diabetes were called and those with clinical symptoms of CTS were included in the study, and median nerve indices were measured according to standard electro diagnosis tests. GEE statistical model was used to compare median nerve indices among diabetic patients with and without metabolic syndrome. All statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20.0.

The mean age of participants was 57.57±9.53. There was no significant difference between the left and right hand regarding median nerve indices except median nerve motor amplitude (MA). Furthermore, components of metabolic syndrome including BMI and LDL were determined as risk factors for CTS according to several indices.

Components of metabolic syndrome had more influence on sensory indices than motor indices and primary control of these components might prevent dysfunction of sensory neurons and also motor neurons in advanced stages among diabetic patients.