Diabetic Foot

Diabetic foot is infection, ulceration and/or deep-tissue destruction of the foot in diabetes, resulting from the combination of neuropathy (sensory/motor/autonomic), peripheral arterial disease and infection. It is a leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputation. Clinical: foot ulcer (often plantar under metatarsal heads), painless due to neuropathy, infection may be limb-threatening; vascular assessment and urgent care required.

Common Symptoms

Painless foot ulcer; foot deformity (Charcot); blackened toe/gangrene; purulent drainage; callus; ischemia signs; reduced pulses

Causes and Pathogenesis

Sensory neuropathy hides trauma; motor neuropathy causes claw-toe/foot deformity; autonomic neuropathy causes dry cracked skin; ischemia impairs healing; minor trauma leads to ulceration and infection.

Treatment

Off-loading; wound care; antibiotics for infection; vascular assessment/revascularization; debridement; amputation if non-salvageable; optimize glycemia

Preventive Measures

Annual foot exam; daily foot inspection; proper footwear; chiropody; smoking cessation; early report of wounds.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Endocrinology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.