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Symptom scoring systems to diagnose distal polyneuropathy in diabetes: the Diabetic Neuropathy Symptom score
Author(s) -
Meijer J. W.G.,
Smit A. J.,
Sonderen E. V.,
Groothoff J. W.,
Eisma W. H.,
Links T. P.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
diabetic medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.474
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 1464-5491
pISSN - 0742-3071
DOI - 10.1046/j.1464-5491.2002.00819.x
Subject(s) - medicine , diabetes mellitus , polyneuropathy , diabetic neuropathy , physical therapy , endocrinology
Aims To provide one of the diagnostic categories for distal diabetic polyneuro‐pathy,several symptom scoring systems are available, which are often extensive andlack in validation. We validated a new four‐item Diabetic Neuropathy Symptom (DNS) scorefor diagnosing distal diabetic polyneuropathy. Methods We compared score characteristics of the generally accepted NeuropathySymptom Score (NSS) with the DNS score, and tested construct validity,predictive value and reproducibility with the Diabetic Neuropathy Examinationscore, Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments and Vibration Perception Threshold(clinical standards) in 73 patients with diabetes (24 Type 1, 49 Type 2;43 male/30 female; mean age 57 years (19–90);mean diabetes duration 15 years (1–43)). Results Correlation between NSS and DNS score was high (Spearman r = 0.88). Patient scoreswere more differentiated on the DNS score. The relation of the NSS andDNS scores, respectively, with clinical standards was good (Spearman r = 0.21–0.60). Reproducibility ofthe DNS score was high (Cohen weighted κ 0.78–0.95). The DNSscore was easier to perform in clinical practice. Conclusions The DNS is validated, fast and easy to perform, with a high predictive valuewhen screening for diabetic polyneuropathy. Diabet. Med. 19, 962–965 (2002)