Peripheral body temperature impairment in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the peripheral temperature rhythmicity and control in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: Twelve non-obese adults (20-40 years old) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) and eight control individuals, matched for age and BMI, wore a wrist temperature recorder for 10 consecutive days. Recorded data were aggregated to calculate M10 (ten hours of highest temperature) and L5 (five hours of lowest temperature) of wrist temperature values for both groups.

Results: Mean wrist temperature and M10 were not different when comparing the groups. The wrist temperature amplitude was reduced in the T1D group (p=0.039), due to a higher L5 (p=0.038).

Discussion: While the higher L5 observed in T1D could be explained by less efficient heat dissipation, the amplitude flattening coincides with that observed in elderly.

Keywords: Body Temperature; Circadian Rhythm; Diabetes Complications; Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Figure 1

a. Graphic representation of the mean M10 for 10 days of collected wrist temperature; b. Graphic representation of the mean L5 for 10 days of collected wrist temperature (note that wrist temperature oscillates in opposition with the core body temperature6).