Relationship between Increased ba-PWV Values and Body Composition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

<p>Background: Reduced lower limb circumference in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) could be a useful screening tool for arteriosclerosis. The objective of this study was to clarify the relationship between lower limb circumference and body composition measures, muscle strength, patient characteristics, and the progression of arteriosclerosis in patients with T2DM.</p><p>Methods: We included 114 patients receiving outpatient care for T2DM, assessed body composition, muscle strength indicators, patient characteristics, clinical diabetic neuropathy status, and examined their brachialankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) measurements using multiple regression analysis.</p><p>Results: The ba-PWV severity levels were classified at 1400 cm/s, 1650 cm/s, and 1963 cm/s to investigate their associations with the patients' attributes using logistic regression analysis. Body mass index (BMI), HbA1c levels, abnormal ankle reflex, and the percentage ratio of the circumference at the tibial tuberosity to the maximum circumference of the lower leg (TRSC%: Circumferential diameter of tibial rough surface/Circumferential diameter of tibia, at the calf at the proximal 26% of the fibula) were the independent variables in the multiple regression analysis, with ba-PWV as the dependent variable. In the logistic regression analysis of ba-PWV categorized at 1400 cm/s, which is considered an index of arteriosclerosis, BMI was the independent variable. When divided by 1963 cm/s, which is considered a mortality risk index, BMI, abnormal ankle reflex, and TRSC% were the independent variables.</p><p>Conclusion: Arteriosclerosis in patients with T2DM is associated with a decrease in lower limb circumference. TRSC% was independently associated with severe arteriosclerosis.</p>