Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes mellitus is associated with various complications including neuropathy. Though Peripheral neuropathy has been thoroughly explored, central neuropathy is yet conspicuous area which needs to be elucidated using novel techniques. Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) is a sensitive technique to assess early impairment of the auditory nerve and of brain stem function which can be a surrogate marker for central neuropathy.
Objective: Present study was aimed to access brain stem evoked potential in patients of type II DM with controlled and uncontrolled blood sugar level groups.
Methodology: Two groups including controlled and uncontrolled T2DM were included in this study and their audiometric analysis was performed using Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry. All testing was performed in sound treated room in which ambient noise level well within the permissible limits. Absolute latencies of wave I III & V in both ear and Interpeak latencies of wave I-III, III-V, I-V in both ears were recorded.
Result: Study groups were found to be matched for age (p=0.20), gender distribution (p=0.67) and duration of DM (p=0.441). FBS (p=0.001), PPBS (0.001) and HbA1c (p<0.0001) were found to be significantly higher in Group 2. Frequency of severe hearing loss (p<0.0001), deafness (p=0.0025), tinnitus (p=0.0017 and vertigo (p=0006) were significantly higher in Group 2. Comparison of latency between Group 1 and Group 2 was performed at difference level. Absolute latency V as well as interpeak latency III-IV were found to be significantly higher in uncontrolled DM group (Group 2).
Conclusion: This study suggests that if brain stem evoked response audiometry is carried out in diabetic patients, involvement of central neuronal axis can be detected earlier in patients and will help to reduce morbidity and early prevention and management.
Impact Factor
2022: 6.012
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