Screening of probable neuropathic pain in patients with diabetes in Derna, Libya

Abstract

Background: Neuropathic pain (NeP) is one of the most frequent complications of diabetes. There is a need to obtain data about the prevalence of NeP among patients with diabetes in Libya to plan appropriate national pain management strategies. Aim: The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of NeP in patients with diabetes and to determine the demographic factors associated with NeP. Methods: The linguistically validated Arabic version of the Self-completed Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S-LANSS) questionnaire was used to screen for probable NeP. Patients with diabetes were asked to fill the questionnaire while in the diabetic center from May 2015 to October 2015. Pain intensity was measured using a visual analog scale. Results: A total of 418 patients (mean ± standard deviation [SD] of age = 56.8 ± 11.8 years) participated in this study with more women (n = 248, 59.3%) taking part than men (n = 170, 40.7%). The overall prevalence of probable NeP among patients with diabetes in this sample, classified as S-LANSS positive with a score of ≥12, was estimated to be 28.5% (95% confidence interval = 24.3%–32.9%). The proportion of females in participants with NeP was 33.5%. The mean pain intensity ± SD was 5.67 ± 2.96. No statistically significant difference was found between different age groups with regard to the presence of NeP. Conclusion: NeP is a common complication associated with diabetes in Derna, Libya. There is a need to improve the assessment and management of NeP in this population.