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Infections in diabetic foot ulcers
F J. Candel González1, M Alramadan, M Matesanz
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
European Journal of Internal Medicine
|September 19, 2003
Summary
Diabetic foot infections commonly involve Staphylococcus aureus and other bacteria. Polymicrobial infections are frequent, with a potential link between sample collection and identified microbes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Diabetology
Background:
- Diabetic foot ulcers and infections represent a significant clinical challenge.
- Understanding the causative microorganisms is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the microbiological flora associated with diabetic foot infections.
- To investigate the prevalence of polymicrobial infections.
- To explore potential correlations between sample collection methods and isolate identification.
Main Methods:
- A 30-month descriptive study analyzing microbiological isolates from patients with diabetic foot infections.
- Identification of bacterial species from wound cultures.
- Assessment of polymicrobial presence and anaerobic bacteria prevalence.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus were the predominant isolates.
- Enterococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., and Enterobacteriaceae were also commonly identified.
- Polymicrobial flora was present in 42% of positive cultures.
- Anaerobic bacteria constituted only 5% of isolates.
Conclusions:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a primary pathogen in diabetic foot infections.
- Polymicrobial infections are common, necessitating broad-spectrum or targeted antimicrobial therapy.
- The sample collection system may influence the detected microbiological profile.