INTRODUCTION: To determine and compare thresholds of cutaneous sensitivity of lower extremities in diabetic patients with an ulcer on only one lower extremity. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The study group included 20 patients with mean age of 61.6 and average time with diabetes of 12.4 years. All patients were previously tested using Semmes-Weinstein monofilament 5.07. Sensitivity was evaluated using the two point discrimination test and the PSSD™ (Pressure-Specified Sensory Device) in order to assess touch thresholds in a quantitative manner, in g/mm². Three skin areas were tested: hallux pulp, dorsum of foot and medial heel, including four tests: 1 point static, 1 point moving, 2 points static and 2 points moving. RESULTS: Mean 2 point discrimination distance in mm was higher in feet with ulcers, but the difference between extremities was only statistically significant for the hallux. With the PSSD™, all patients had higher pressure thresholds in feet with ulcers when compared with feet without ulcers, in all tests, with statistical significance. CONCLUSION: The PSSD™ was able to differentiate levels of sensation between extremities with and without ulcers in diabetic patients, with statistical significance.
Diabetic foot; Diabetic neuropathies; Foot ulcer; Sensation; Sensory thresholds
