Nerve Conduction Abnormalities in Children with Type I Diabetes

David Chkhartishvili, Nana Khachapuridze, 
George Natriashvili, Nana Geladze, Nana Kapanadze

Neuropathy is the most frequent symptomatic complication of diabetes. Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is the most common variety of neuropathy, which represents chronic symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy. (DPN) typically begins as a generalized asymptomatic dysfunction of peripheral nerve fibers, which may be revealed by electroneurography. However, nerve conduction study (NCS) is a sensitive method for early detecting of peripheral neuropathy. We have performed NCS in 69 children with poorly compensated diabetes type I aged 7-18 y. Study protocol included testing of peripheral motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities (NCVs) and compound motor and sensory nerve action potential amplitudes. We revealed subclinical abnormalities, which were symmetric, suggestive of DPN and reflecting disorders of predominantly motor rather than sensory nerves. In addition, NC abnormalities were correlated with high HbA1c level, patient age and disease (diabetes) duration. Poor metabolic control was the most important contributor to abnormal electrophysiologic parameters.

Keywords:  diabetic neuropathy, nerve conduction, diabetes type I, subclinical neuropathy