Thermography and Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments in the assessment of tactile sensitivity in type II diabetic patients at risk for diabetic peripheral neuropathy

• Published in: Research on biomedical engineering Vol. 41; no. 2
• Main Authors: Mendes, Giorgia Caroline, Nakato, Adriane Muller, Lançoni, Samira Said, Barros, Frieda Saicla, Nohama, Percy
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 01.06.2025
• Subjects: Biomaterials; Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering; Biomedical Engineering/Biotechnology; Engineering; Original Article; Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments; Diabetes mellitus; Peripheral nervous system diseases; Thermography
• ISSN: 2446-4732; 2446-4740
• DOI: 10.1007/s42600-025-00419-1

Purpose This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of thermographic imaging and Semmes–Weinstein monofilament techniques in assessing tactile sensitivity in the lower limbs of type II diabetes patients at risk for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Methods This experimental study included 30 individuals with type II diabetes mellitus. Sensitivity was tested at 10 points on both feet, and preserved tactile sensitivity was observed in only six individuals (20%). Extensive loss in tactile sensibility within the range of subjects in the survey was found on the sole of the feet, mainly in the region of the toes. Results The average temperature in areas where sensitivity was detected was 0.44 °C higher compared to areas where tactile sensitivity was absent ( p  = 0.05). When no covariates were included in the model, the sensitivity variable showed a significant effect at the 6% level. Tactile sensitive points exhibited higher temperatures than non-sensitive ones. Conclusion Both techniques utilized enhanced the diagnosis and prognosis for diabetes mellitus patients, enabling early detection and more effective management of the disease. This, in turn, leads to improved clinical outcomes, better quality of life for patients, and a reduction in the high costs associated with public healthcare.