Diabetic Foot Infections

Abstract

Diabetes is a growing public health concern, with diabetic foot infections (DFI) being one of the leading causes of lower extremity limb amputation in the United States. Accurate diagnosis of DFI requires a combination of clinical, laboratory, and radiologic tests to determine the extent and depth of infection, including the presence of osteomyelitis. Treatment often includes a combination of antibiotics and surgical debridement. Addressing comorbidities such as peripheral vascular disease, glycemic control, and offloading pressure from ulcers and bony prominences is paramount to achieving a successful outcome, and patients should ideally be managed by dedicated interdisciplinary teams.

Keywords: Diabetic foot infection; Offloading; Osteomyelitis; Peripheral vascular disease.