# Association of Nerve Conduction Study Variables with Hematologic Tests in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

## TL;DR

This study finds that hematologic tests combined with nerve conduction studies can help detect diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients earlier.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific hematologic markers associated with nerve conduction outcomes in T2DM patients for early DPN detection.

## Key findings

- Abnormal NCS results were found in 57% of participants with T2DM and neuropathic symptoms.
- Lower HDL-C, Apo A-I, and vitamin B12 levels correlated with DPN, suggesting their potential for early diagnosis.
- Age, diabetes duration, and hyperglycemia were significant predictors of DPN in multivariate analysis.

## Abstract

Background and Objective: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with nerve conduction studies (NCSs) serving as the diagnostic gold standard. Early diagnosis is critical for effective management, yet many cases are detected late due to the gradual onset of symptoms. This study explores the relationship between hematological tests and NCS outcomes in T2DM patients to improve the early detection of DPN. Material and Methods: This retrospective study involved T2DM patients exhibiting neuropathic symptoms, and patients were divided based on NCS findings into groups with normal and abnormal results to assess the diagnostic value of various hematological markers, clinical, and demographic data for DPN. Results: Among 400 participants, 57% (n = 228) had abnormal NCS results indicative of DPN. Significant differences were observed in the abnormal-NCS group, including older age, longer diabetes duration, higher levels of fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, and apolipoprotein B, along with lower eGFR, HDL-C, and Apo A-I levels. Notably, negative correlations were found between HDL-C, Apo A-I, vitamin B12, and specific NCS measurements, while positive correlations existed with sural sensory nerve amplitudes. Multivariate analysis highlighted the importance of age, diabetes duration, hyperglycemia, and specific hematologic markers in predicting DPN. Conclusions: The findings confirm that NCSs, combined with hematologic testing, can effectively identify DPN in T2DM patients. Consistent with prior research, prolonged hyperglycemia and nephropathy progression are strongly linked to DPN development. Additionally, lower levels of HDL-C, Apo A-I, and vitamin B12 are associated with the condition, suggesting their potential utility in early diagnostic protocols.