Efficacy of Altered Frequency Dynamics of Ocular-Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Purpose: The study aims to address the gap in understanding the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and vestibular dysfunction, particularly focusing on how T2DM may affect the tuning of the vestibular system. Specifically, the investigation aims to explore the impact of stimulus parameters, particularly stimulus frequency, on ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (oVEMP) in individuals with T2DM.Methods: A case-control study design was used, utilizing non-probability sampling. All participants underwent routine audiological and vestibular evaluations before inclusion in the study. oVEMP’s were compared across 40 healthy individuals (group A) and 40 individuals with T2DM (group B) at 500 Hz, 1 KHz, and 2 KHz.Results: In group A, all 80 participants exhibited oVEMP responses across all frequencies in both ears, while in group B, consisting of individuals with T2DM, response rates were slightly lower, ranging from 70% to 77.5% across frequencies. Statistical analysis revealed significant amplitude differences at all frequencies tested in type 2 diabetic ears compared to healthy ears, although amplitude remained consistent within type 2 diabetic ears. Latencies (first negative [N1] and first positive [P1]) were consistent across groups, with delays observed in P1 latency, particularly noticeable at higher frequencies, both in healthy and type 2 diabetic ears. Gender didn't affect oVEMP frequency dynamics in any of the groups.Conclusion: Diabetes may create an impact in the functioning of otolith organs, the vestibular branch of eighth cranial nerve, and their innervations. VEMP evaluates both the sacculo-collic and utriculo-ocular pathways to detect changes in the functions of vestibular organs. Therefore, it's crucial to consider diabetes when conducting vestibular diagnosis or treatment.