Correlation of neuropathy with corneal sensitivity and lacrimal gland secretion in type 2 diabetes mellitus patient.

AIM: To evaluate correlation between blood glucose control, corneal sensitivity and lacrimal secretion in type 2 DM with peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: A cross sectional study has been conducted in 20 type DM with peripheral neuropathy and 20 without peripheral neuropathy at the Department of Internal Medicine and Ophthalmology, Ciptomangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine University of Indonesia, from August through November 2002. All subject underwent a comprehensive medical examination, including esthesiometer Semmes-Weinstein 10 g, HbA1c, Schirmer test, and corneal sensitivity measurements. RESULTS: The mean corneal sensitivity was significantly lower in diabetic patients with neuropathy (p=0.000). HbA1(c) was related to corneal sensitivity (p=0.016). CONCLUSION: In type 2 DM with peripheral neuropathy, corneal sensitivity was demonstrated to be significantly decrease, all of which seems to be due to the status of blood glucose control.