What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
5. Investigations
A physical examination of the patient using a tuning fork and monofilament should be performed. Important screening tests are fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A1c. Many recommend using electrophysiologic testing to evaluate diabetic neuropathy.
Some basic laboratory screening tests that may be performed include complete blood count, metabolic panel, thyroid function tests, vitamin B12 levels, folate levels, C-reactive protein, antinuclear antibody, and rheumatoid factor. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies can help assess the characteristics of the neuropathy and localization. Other beneficial investigations include conventional nerve conduction velocity studies and needle electromyography.
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