Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

MTG38/1

Question

Further research is needed on the benefits and consequences of detecting preclinical diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

In its assessment report, the EAC identified a number of possible priorities for future research on the comparative effectiveness of Neuropad and 10 g monofilament testing, and on the effectiveness of foot care programmes. The clinical experts also highlighted areas for future research that could be considered. They proposed a multicentre, longitudinal study with at least 5 years' follow-up, comparing point-of-care testing strategies (including Neuropad) in predicting future diabetic  complications, including DPN, using a reference standard (such as the neuropathy disability score). The experts also proposed a community-based study to explore the benefits of using Neuropad to detect preclinical DPN in populations that include vulnerable people, in whom 10 g monofilament testing is not possible. Such a study could also define the benefits to people with diabetes of improved access to DPN diagnostic and treatment services.
The committee considered that research into the wider benefits of detecting preclinical DPN and how to address the deficiencies in the current care pathway would be valuable, but acknowledged that these are issues beyond the scope of this assessment. Such research would also help to clarify Neuropad's effectiveness in detecting preclinical DPN.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Neuropad for detecting preclinical diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Number

MTG38

Date issued

September 2018

Other details