Vibration Perception Threshold as a Method for Detecting Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review of...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common diabetes mellitus (DM) complication, causing sensory loss and increasing amputation risk.
• Early detection via vibration perception threshold (VPT) measurement is vital for managing DPN.
• VPT devices are key tools for timely DPN identification and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the diagnostic accuracy and reliability of VPT measurement devices in individuals with DM.
• To assess how well VPT devices detect DPN compared to established diagnostic standards.
• To evaluate the consistency and trustworthiness of VPT measurements in diabetic patients.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a systematic literature search across four databases.
• Included cross-sectional and case-control studies evaluating VPT devices against reference standards (NCS, clinical diagnosis) for DPN.
• Assessed risk of bias using QAREL and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies.

Main Results:

• Analyzed eighteen studies assessing VPT devices for DPN screening.
• Most studies reported moderate sensitivity and specificity for VPT devices.
• Reliability was generally acceptable, but varied based on technical and methodological factors.

Conclusions:

• VPT measurement devices are potentially useful for screening diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).
• Diagnostic accuracy and reliability are inconsistent, influenced by technical and methodological variations.
• Standardization of threshold values and procedures is crucial for enhancing clinical utility and requires further research.