[Charcot's joint as a chronic complication in diabetes mellitus]

Charcot joints are considered to be chronic complications of diabetes mellitus. Although it is not a common disease, due to its progressive character, it can lead to permanent immobility and reduces quality of life in these patients. It is known that evolution of Charcot joints has three stages and the best results of therapy can only be achieved in the first stage. Later, only surgical treatment can be considered with very poor results.

This is a case report of a young patient with a very severe form of diabetic arthropathy and other complications of diabetes. This 27-year old woman suffered from diabetes for 10 years and her family history showed that her grandfather and uncle had diabetes too. During physical examination severe deformities of the foot and malleolus were detected. Detection of chronic complications required evaluation of the level of neuropathy.

Chronic complications of diabetes are very frequent. A severe form of complications are Charcot joint's that can lead to permanent immobility. That is why it is important to recognize the early signs and symptoms of these changes in order to treat them in the early phase when best results are expected.