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Peripheral and autonomic nerve function in long-term insulin-dependent diabetes
Diabetes Research (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Diabetic neuropathy is common in long-term insulin-dependent diabetes, affecting both peripheral nerves and autonomic functions. Poor glycemic control, indicated by high HbA1 levels, correlates with nerve damage and dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Diabetology
- Autonomic Neuroscience
Background:
- Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of long-term insulin-dependent diabetes.
- Peripheral and autonomic nerve dysfunction significantly impacts patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate nerve conduction velocities (NCV), beat-to-beat variation (BBV), and speed of pupillary dilatation (SPD) in diabetics.
- To assess the correlation between electrophysiologic abnormalities and glycemic control (HbA1).
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 127 insulin-dependent diabetics and age-matched controls.
- Electrophysiologic tests: motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV), BBV, SPD.
- Correlation analysis with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1) levels, age, and diabetes duration.
Main Results:
- 84% of diabetic patients showed electrophysiologic abnormalities; 66% had decreased sural SNCV.
- Nerve conduction parameters correlated with BBV and SPD.
- Higher HbA1 levels correlated with reduced MNCV and SNCV.
- Nerve function deteriorated with age and diabetes duration.
Conclusions:
- Significant association exists between peripheral and autonomic nerve dysfunction in long-term diabetics.
- Electrophysiologic abnormalities are prevalent even in asymptomatic patients.
- Glycemic control is a critical factor in preventing or delaying diabetic neuropathy.