Endocrine Abstracts

Background: The aim of our study was to assess the effectiveness of α-lipoic acid for the reducing the risk of developing peripheral diabetic neuropathy.

Subjects and methods: We have studied 38 patients with type I and II diabetes, from age 28 to 35. The mean duration of disease was 9 years. Patients were divided in two groups. In group I were included 15 patients which got α-lipoic acid in order to prevent peripheral diabetic neuropathy in dosage 600 mg-50 ml a day i/v infusion during 3 weeks, then 600 mg a day per-os, during 2 months. The treatment was provided twice a year during the 2 year period. In group II were included 23 patients, who did not got α-lipoic acid. In both groups we studied HbAIC, fasting glucose, lipid profile, sensation screening tests; knee-jerk and tendon reflexes, subjective complaints were estimated by TSS scale.

Results

In I group of the patients the mean value of HbAIC was 7.0%, fasting glucose 133 mg/dl (±20); total Chol. 208 (±30), Trig 198 (±15), HDL 76 (±10); LDL 112 (±12), vibration sensation was decreased in 4 and a temperature sensation in 2 patients. The tactile and pain sensation were preserved. Knee-jerk and tendon reflexes were not changed, subjective symptoms by TSS were – 1.00;

In group II HbAIC was 7.2%, fasting glucose 138 mg/dl (±25); total Chol. 234 (±33); Trig 265 mg/dl; HDL 71 mg/dl; (±10); LDL 116 mg/dl, vibration sensation was decreased in 10, tactile sensation - in 2 and a temperature sensation in - 6 patients. The tactile and pain sensation were preserved. Knee-jerk and tendon reflexes were not changed, subjective symptoms by TSS was – 1.33;

Conclusion: Administration of α-lipoic acid for the lowering the risk of developing of peripheral diabetic neuropathy is required.