Effects of acute hyperglycaemia on anorectal motor and sensory function in diabetes mellitus

© 2004 Diabetes UK. Diabetic Medicine. The definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.comAimsTo determine the effects of acute hyperglycaemia on anorectal motor and sensory function in patients with diabetes mellitus.MethodsIn eight patients with Type 1, and 10 patients with Type 2 diabetes anorectal motility and sensation were evaluated on separate days while the blood glucose concentration was stabilized at either 5 mmol/l or 12 mmol/l using a glucose clamp technique. Eight healthy subjects were studied under euglycaemic conditions. Anorectal motor and sensory function was evaluated using a sleeve/sidehole catheter, incorporating a barostat bag.ResultsIn diabetic subjects hyperglycaemia was associated with reductions in maximal (PConclusionsIn patients with diabetes, acute hyperglycaemia inhibits external anal sphincter function and decreases rectal compliance, potentially increasing the risk of faecal incontinence.A. Russo, R. Botten, M.-F. Kong, I. M. Chapman, R. J. L. Fraser, M. Horowitz and W.-M. Su