부산대학교 도서관

Neuropathy is associated with sensation loss in the extremities. Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments are common tools used to assess an individuals' sensation perception. A tool was developed to automate this testing protocol and to more accurately determine an individual's threshold sensitivity at various locations on the plantar surface. Individuals without type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) were classed as control subjects. They were evaluated using a hand applied monofilament and the automated tool. The device accuracy of the automated tool was first determined, followed by subject's threshold sensitivity at each location. Twenty-six locations were evaluated per person between 0.35 and 10.0 grams-force. A threshold sensitivity index norm was calculated based on the threshold sensitivity at each location per individual and was plotted against age, body mass index, ankle brachial index, fasting blood sugars, and HbA1c. The device demonstrated accuracy with an absolute error less than or equal to 0.4 grams-force at most locations. Age showed the strongest relationships to sensation loss. As age increased sensitivity to touch decreased. The automated tool was shown to be effective in determining an individual's threshold sensitivity in individuals without DM2. The calculation of the threshold sensitivity index norm was useful to classify sensation loss.