Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 30, 2025
06:31
Assessment of Midline Lingual Point-Pressure Somatosensation Using Von Frey Hair Monofilaments
Published on: February 21, 2020
8.6K
Sex-based differences and aging in tactile function loss in persons with type 2 diabetes
Stacey L Gorniak1, Nereyda Ochoa1, Lauren I Gulley Cox1
1Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States of America.
Plos One
|November 12, 2020
Summary
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) significantly impacts tactile sensation, especially in older males with poor metabolic control and neuropathy. These findings highlight key factors for managing DM complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Sex-based differences in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) presentation and complications affect functionality and quality of life.
- Tactile function of the hands is crucial for daily activities and overall quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of DM and sex on tactile hand sensation.
- To consider health state measures in relation to tactile function in DM.
Main Methods:
- A case-control observational study involving 132 adults (70 with DM, 62 controls).
- Evaluated tactile sensation using the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test.
- Data collected from 2012-2020 in a diverse community setting.
Main Results:
- Tactile sensation was negatively affected by male sex, age, handedness, high A1c, DM diagnosis, and neuropathy.
- Older, strongly right-handed males with poorly controlled DM and neuropathy had the worst tactile discrimination.
- In secondary analysis including minority status, DM diagnosis was not significant, but age, neuropathy, handedness, and A1c remained impactful.
Conclusions:
- Male sex, age, handedness, minority status, and metabolic health significantly influence tactile sensation.
- These modifiable and non-modifiable factors are critical for monitoring and treating DM complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
4.0K
Type 2 diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance, arises when the insulin receptors on cells lose responsiveness to insulin, diminishing the cell's capacity to take up glucose, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. To receive a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, a series of blood glucose tests are necessary to assess whether the blood glucose falls within normal parameters. If the result is out of the normal range, a patient may be diagnosed as prediabetic or diabetic, depending on the...
4.0K
01:15Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications
1.7K
For most patients, experiencing several weeks of polyuria, polydipsia, fatigue, and significant weight loss may indicate the presence of diabetes. Furthermore, adults displaying the phenotypic appearance of type 2 diabetes (particularly those who are obese and not initially insulin-requiring), may have islet cell autoantibodies, suggesting autoimmune-mediated β cell destruction and a diagnosis of latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA). The categorization of glucose homeostasis is...
1.7K
01:22Diabetes Mellitus: Overview and Type I Subtype
4.5K
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to inadequate insulin production, insulin resistance, or both. The condition affects millions worldwide and can significantly impact their health and quality of life.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, and individuals with...
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, and individuals with...
4.5K
01:19The Effect of Aging on Tissues
3.0K
Several body functions deteriorate with age. The external signs of aging are easily identifiable. For example, the skin becomes dry, less elastic, and thins out, forming wrinkles. The skin of the face begins to appear looser due to a decrease in the levels of elastic and collagen fibers in the connective tissue. Additionally, melanin production in the hair follicle decreases with age, resulting in gray hair. Moreover, the senses of sight and hearing decline, so glasses and hearing aids may...
3.0K
01:36Carbohydrate Metabolism
13.1K
Carbohydrates are polymers composed of molecules containing atoms of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. One gram of carbohydrate can provide four kilo-calories of energy, which makes it the most efficient instant energy source.
Starch accounts for approximately 60% of the carbohydrates consumed by humans. Since amylase enzymes cannot function in the stomach's acidic environment, starch can only be digested in the mouth and small intestine. Simple sugars are found naturally in milk and fruits in...
Starch accounts for approximately 60% of the carbohydrates consumed by humans. Since amylase enzymes cannot function in the stomach's acidic environment, starch can only be digested in the mouth and small intestine. Simple sugars are found naturally in milk and fruits in...
13.1K
01:19Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
221
Chronic stress has been linked to both the onset and progression of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Type 2 diabetes, a widespread chronic illness, is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both of which often worsen under stress. Studies indicate that men experiencing high levels of chronic stress face a 45% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with minimal stress. Stress triggers physiological responses that elevate blood...
221