Proximal sensory conduction in diabetic patients.

A study of segmental conduction along the peripheral afferent pathway of the upper limbs was carried out in 44 diabetic patients and 44 controls. An abnormal proximal conduction (Erb-cervical) was observed in 9 patients (20.4%). A similar incidence of abnormalities appeared at the most distal segment (digit III-wrist). A significant relationship between the alterations of proximal conduction and the presence of clinical signs of diabetic polyneuropathy was found. A common pathogenic mechanism underlying both these disorders is suggested.