Bacteriology of diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

Seventy five diabetic foot ulcers were cultured using optimal aerobic and anaerobic microbiologic techniques. There were a total of 223 isolates (162 aerobes and 61 anaerobes) representing an average of 2.97 bacterial species per specimen. Mixed organisms were the most common isolates. Staphylococcus aureus was the commonest isolate being recovered in 60% of cases. Anaerobic organisms were isolated in 46 patients (61.33%) and the most frequent anaerobe isolated was Bacteroides fragilis. The other organisms predominantly isolated were Proteus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Peptoccus and Clostridia. Antibiogram showed discouraging pattern with commonly used antibiotics. Metronidazole and gentamicin were the most effective antimicrobial agents against anaerobic and aerobic organisms respectively. Appreciation of the causative organisms in diabetic foot and their antibiotic sensitivity is essential for institution of appropriate antibiotic therapy.