Diagnostic Accuracy of Point-of-care Tests Used to Detect Arterial Disease in Diabetes: TEsting for Arterial Disease in Diabetes (TrEAD) Study.

OBJECTIVE

We compared the diagnostic performance of a novel point-of-care duplex ultrasound test (podiatry ankle duplex scan; PAD-scan) against commonly used bedside tests for the detection of PAD in diabetes.

BACKGROUND

PAD is a major risk factor for diabetic foot ulceration and amputation. Its diagnosis is fundamental though challenging. Although a variety of bedside tests are available, there is no agreement as to which is the most useful. PAD-scan may be advantageous over current tests as it allows for vessel visualization and more accurate arterial waveform assessment. However, its accuracy has not been previously evaluated.

METHODS

From March to October 2019, we recruited 305 patients from 2 diabetic foot clinics. The diagnostic performance of ankle-brachial pressure index, toe-brachial pressure index, transcutaneous pressure of oxygen, pulse palpation, and ankle waveform assessment using PAD-scan and Doppler devices (audible and visual waveform assessment) were assessed. The reference test was a full lower limb duplex ultrasound.

RESULTS

Based on the reference test, 202 (66.2%) patients had evidence of PAD. PAD-scan had a significantly higher sensitivity [95%, confidence interval (CI) 90%-97%) as compared to all other tests. Particularly low sensitivities were seen with pulse palpation (43%, CI 36%-50%) and transcutaneous pressure of oxygen (31%, CI 24%-38%). PAD-scan had a lower specificity (77%, CI 67%-84%) compared to toe-brachial pressure index (86%, CI 78%-93%; P < 0.001), but not statistically different when compared to all other tests.

CONCLUSIONS

PAD-scan has superior diagnostic utility and is a valid first line investigation.