Prevalence of peripheral neuropathy among primary care type 2 diabetic patients

Background: Neuropathy is a common complication of diabetic patients. Aim: To determine the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Type 2 diabetic patients attended at a family medicine unit. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of 348 type 2 diabetic patients aged 34-89 years (60% females) with a disease duration of 5 to 15 years. Peripheral neurological status was evaluated using The Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument, a tool that includes a self-assessment of symptoms and a physical examination. Results: Diabetic neuropathy was found in 240 patients (69%). The prevalence in males and females was 72 and 67% respectively. The prevalence in patients with a disease duration of 5, 10 and 15 years, was 59, 69 and 77%, respectively. Fifty percent of patients with neuropathy complained of dry skin, 2% had ulcers, 43% had an abnormal perception of vibration and 29% had an abnormal monofilament test. Conclusions: The overall prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in this group of patients was 69% and was directly associated with the duration of the disease. (Rev Med Chile 2012; 140: 1126-1131).