Diabetic neuropathies: classification and management.

In the management of diabetic patients, systematic detection of asymptomati c neuropathies is essential, requiring periodic search for sensory disturba nces of the feet in order to prevent the onset of trophic disorders. The di agnosis of neuropathy is based on clinical examination. Any focal or multif ocal neuropathy should be explored as in a nondiabetic patient before concl uding that diabetes is involved. Unusual forms (e.g. motor predominance, ea rly onset or rapid development) should be seen by a specialist. complementa ry examinations, particularly electromyography, are only indicated in atypi cal forms.