F wave latency--a frequent and early involved nerve conduction parameter in young diabetic subjects.

F-wave latency measurement is a sensitive parameter of diabetic neuropathy than the conduction velocities. This study was carried out to measure F-wave latency and to see which conduction parameters are affected frequently and early. A total number of 62 patients of which 32 newly diagnosed and 30 controls were included in the study. Ulnar motor nerve conduction velocity was found slowed in 6(18.75%) diabetic subjects, but F-wave latency was found prolonged in 16(50%) diabetic subjects. 28(87.5%) diabetic subjects had normal peroneal nerve conduction velocity but peroneal F wave was found prolonged in 17(53.12%) diabetic subjects. This result suggests that F-wave latency is more frequently & early involved conduction parameter in diabetic subjects.