Corneal sensitivity and vibratory perception in diabetes mellitus

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease with known microvascular and neurological complications.
• Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, affecting sensory and motor functions.
• Corneal sensitivity and vibratory perception are measurable indicators of neurological function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate corneal sensitivity and vibratory perception in patients with diabetes mellitus.
• To compare sensory function between diabetic patients and healthy controls.
• To explore the relationship between reduced sensory perception and diabetic polyneuropathy.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 36 diabetic patients and 45 controls underwent sensory testing.
• Corneal sensitivity was assessed using Cochet & Bonnet's aesthesiometer.
• Vibratory perception was measured in the left index finger and great toe using a biothesiometer.

Main Results:

• 83% of diabetic patients exhibited reduced corneal sensitivity (<60 mm) compared to 38% of controls.
• Diabetic patients showed significantly reduced vibratory perception.
• Corneal sensitivity and vibratory perception reductions were correlated in diabetics.
• Both sensory functions declined with age over 50 years in all participants.

Conclusions:

• Reduced corneal sensitivity in diabetes mellitus appears to be a component of generalized polyneuropathy.
• Sensory deficits in diabetes extend to corneal nerves, indicating widespread neurological involvement.
• Age is an independent factor influencing sensory perception in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals.