A Comparative Analysis of Diagnostic Accuracy: Vibration Perception Threshold vs. Diabetic Neuropathy Examination for Diabetic Neuropathy

Background: Diabetes mellitus has emerged as a global health crisis, with its prevalence escalating dramatically. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) stands out as one of the most frequent complications, leading to significant morbidity, including foot ulcers and amputations, if not identified and...

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Main Authors: Arulmozhi Subramani, Panneerselvam Periasamy, Sasikala Gunasekaran
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2024-12-01
Series:Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences
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Online Access:https://journals.lww.com/10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_1160_24
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Summary:Background: Diabetes mellitus has emerged as a global health crisis, with its prevalence escalating dramatically. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) stands out as one of the most frequent complications, leading to significant morbidity, including foot ulcers and amputations, if not identified and managed promptly. Effective screening methods are essential for early detection, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of severe complications. Aim and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the Diabetic Neuropathy Examination (DNE) score in comparison to the vibration perception threshold (VPT) test. Both methods will be assessed individually and in combination to determine their effectiveness in diagnosing DPN among patients with diabetes. The study also seeks to establish a correlation between these screening tests. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving 100 subjects, comprising 50 patients diagnosed with DPN and 50 healthy controls. The participants were aged between 30 and 70 years, and various parameters such as fasting blood sugar, anthropometric measurements, DNE scores, and VPT readings were recorded. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Results: The findings indicated that the DNE score demonstrated a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 73.33%, while VPT exhibited a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 86.67%. When both tests were combined, the sensitivity increased to 90%, highlighting the potential for enhanced diagnostic accuracy through a multimodal approach. Conclusion: The DNE score, when utilized alongside VPT, provides a robust framework for the early detection of DPN, particularly in community settings where resources may be limited. This study underscores the importance of integrating simple, effective screening techniques into routine clinical practice to mitigate the risks associated with diabetic complications.
ISSN:0976-4879
0975-7406