Comparing indices of median nerve among diabetic patients with or without metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among patients with type II diabetes and is reported
as a strong risk factor for cardiovascular diseases as well as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The aim of the
current study was to compare median nerve indices among diabetic patients with and without metabolic
syndrome.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 105 patients with type II diabetes whom
participated in the coronary artery disease risk factor study in Kerman, Iran (KERCARDS). Patients with
type II diabetes were called and those with clinical symptoms of CTS were included in the study, and
median nerve indices were measured according to standard electro diagnosis tests. GEE statistical model
was used to compare median nerve indices among diabetic patients with and without metabolic
syndrome. All statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20.0.
Results: The mean age of participants was 57.57
9.53. There was no significant difference between the
left and right hand regarding median nerve indices except median nerve motor amplitude (MA).
Furthermore, components of metabolic syndrome including BMI and LDL were determined as risk factors
for CTS according to several indices.
Conclusion: Components of metabolic syndrome had more influence on sensory indices than motor
indices and primary control of these components might prevent dysfunction of sensory neurons and also
motor neurons in advanced stages among diabetic patients.