Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Musculoskeletal manifestation is one of the leading cause of morbidity and disability among type 2 diabetics. Also management of these conditions with steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, adversely impact the glycaemic control of diabetics. Our study aims to look for prevalence of different musculoskeletal manifestation among type 2 diabetes.

Methodology: Our study is a cross-sectional observational study and it is comprised of 200 type 2 diabetics (>1 year duration) and 200 non-diabetic adult (>18 years) populations. All the cases were subjected to GALS screening (Gait, Arm, Leg and Spine). Patients with positive GALS screening were evaluated by REMS (Regional Examination of Musculoskeletal systems). Radiological examinations were done where needed.

Results: Prevalence of musculoskeletal manifestations was 55% (n=1110) among diabetics compared to 22.5% (n=44) among non-diabetics (P<0.001). 8% of diabetic patients with musculoskeletal manifestations were asymptomatic and detected by GALS screening. According to prevalence most common musculoskeletal manifestation among diabetics was cheiroarthropathy (21.5%; n=43) followed by osteoarthritis (19%; n=38), Adhesive capsulitis (11.5%; n=23), dupuytren’s contracture (6.5%; n-13), flexor tenosynovitis (2%; n=4), Charcot joint (2%; n=4) and carpal tunnel syndrome (1.5%; n=3). Presence of musculoskeletal manifestations is found to be significantly associated with long duration of diabetes, glycaemic control and presence of one or more microvascular complications.

Conclusion: Our study showed that the musculoskeletal manifestations are more prevalent among type 2 diabetics compared to non-diabetes population. A significant proportion of diabetics have these manifestations asymptomatically. Early diagnosis of these manifestations and good glycaemic control are important for the management.