A truncated ultrasound screening procedure for atheroma of the cervical arteries in asymptomatic diabetic patients: evidence from a retrospective study.

AIM: To demonstrate that ultrasound screening of diabetic patients presenting with no cerebrovascular symptoms for evaluation of atheroma of the cervical arteries can be limited to the carotid arteries. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the results of cervical artery ultrasound imaging of diabetic patients with no cerebrovascular symptoms. This diabetic population was divided into two subpopulations according to whether or not the vertebral and subclavian artery findings were normal or abnormal. RESULTS: Of the 760 patients who fulfilled the criteria for study inclusion, the ultrasound imaging findings of the vertebral and subclavian arteries were normal in 712 cases. Review of the files of the 48 remaining patients showed that findings for either the vertebral or subclavian arteries did not lead to any changes in patient management because of associated risk factors, carotid atheroma or peripheral arterial disease. CONCLUSION: A vascular risk evaluation in diabetic patients could include ultrasound imaging assessment for cervical artery atheroma and our data suggest that such an evaluation could be focused solely on the carotid arteries.

[Health leagues in the canton of Vaud]. / Ligues de la santé dans le canton de Vaud.

The cantonal associations against tuberculosis and lung disease, rheumatism and cardiovascular disease have joined in the "Fédération Vaudoise des Ligues de la Santé". Associations of diabetes, dialysis, mucoviscidosis and M. Bechterew collaborate in the local sections for assistance to patients and their relatives, early diagnosis, prevention and information of the public. Efficiency of the work and contacts with the authorities and the populations could be enhanced by this collaboration which still preserves the dynamism of the individual associations.