Biomedicine

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), are common endocrine disorders. Presence of both will have a prominent, augmented complex interaction with obvious interdependence. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a T2D complication. VPT assessment is a quantitative testing and screening tool for DPN, is easy, accurate assessment. Objectives: To study, assess and compare VPT in normal, T2D with and without SCH. Study Design: A cross-sectional, observational, and comparative study design including 90 subjects; 3 groups of 30 each; Group-A: Healthy subjects, Group-B: Newly detected T2D, Group-C: Newly detected T2D and SCH. Materials and Methods: Basic characteristics, Anthropometry, FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, TSH and VPT tests were conducted and the results were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: FBS, PPBS, HbA1c of Group-B and C were statistically higher. TSH values of Group-C was statistically higher. Average VPT of Group-B and C were statistically higher. Discussion: Groups (B, C) included newly detected T2D. Free T4 levels were comparable. TSH was significantly higher in the Group-C. Higher VPT values indicated DPN in T2D at diagnosis. T2D with SCH has higher VPT values suggesting that SCH aggravates the pathogenetic mechanism causing DPN. Conclusion: Microvascular changes in T2D at diagnosis predisposes DPN and an altered VPT identifies those at risk. Early diagnosis will prevent nerve damage. Life style modification, treatment of T2D and SCH at an earliest disease stage may even reverse DPN