Neurogenic disorders of the foot in diabetes mellitus

Neurogenic disorders of the foot in diabetics have been found with increasing frequency in recent years, Therefore, familiarity with the spectrum of roentgen findings appears essential. Significant changes include Charcot joints of the tarsus (destructive type), and bone absorption of the forefoot (multilating type). Charcot joints have been observed in 11 patients, bone absorption in 12, and a combination of both types in 3. This combination strongly suggests a diabetic neuropathy. Pathogenesis and differential diagnosis are briefly discussed.