[Skin lesions in the diabetic foot]

Abstract

In diabetic foot syndrome, a series of complications of late-stage diabetes affect the foot. These complications, which culminate in foot amputation, include peripheral vascular disease and neuropathy, Charcot arthropathy, plantar ulceration, and osteomyelitis. In recent years, the medical community has paid greater attention to diabetic foot syndrome, and our understanding of its pathophysiology and management has advanced. Although the podiatrist is charged with caring for the diabetic foot, as dermatologists we occasionally act as consultants. This review therefore offers dermatologists an update on the causes and management of skin lesions in the diabetic foot.