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[Diabetic foot infections: a preliminary report]
1Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veteran General Hospital, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Gaoxiong Yi Xue Ke Xue Za Zhi = the Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Diabetic foot infections commonly affect older males, with toes being the most frequent site. Longer diabetes mellitus duration significantly increases amputation risk.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Endocrinology
- Podiatry
Context:
- Diabetic foot infections are a leading cause of hospitalization for diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.
- Understanding the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of these infections is crucial for effective management.
Purpose:
- To analyze patient demographics, infection sites, clinical presentation, outcomes, and bacteriologic findings in diabetic foot infections.
- To identify risk factors associated with poorer outcomes, such as amputation.
Summary:
- The study analyzed 80 diabetic patients (mean age 62.5 years; 1.9:1 male to female ratio) with foot infections. Toes were the most common infection site (53.8%). Cellulitis with other lesions (78.8%) and foot ulcers (75%) were prevalent. Amputation occurred in 66.3% of patients, significantly more in those with a long DM history (p<0.01). Proteus mirabilis and E. coli were common pathogens.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the high amputation rate in diabetic foot infections, emphasizing the need for early intervention.
- Identifies key demographic and clinical factors influencing infection severity and treatment outcomes.
- Provides insights into common causative bacteria, aiding in targeted antimicrobial therapy selection.