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Preclinical Model of Hind Limb Ischemia in Diabetic Rabbits
Published on: June 2, 2019
Diabetic muscle infarction in a patient with acute embolic stroke
Eason Huang1, Cheng-Feng Ho, Ping-Keung Yip
1Neurological Center, Cardinal Tien Hospital, No 362, Chung Cheng Road, Hsintien, Taipei, 23137, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Diabetic mellitus (DM) has many well-known complications. However, there is one rare complication, diabetic muscle infarction (DMI), which is usually under diagnosed. Hereby, we present a 53-year-old Chinese man with a history of DM, hypertension and atrial fibrillation. He had acute onset of severe left lower leg pain and swelling with difficulty in walking 4 days before admission. Physical examination revealed non-pitting and non-erythematous swelling with cold sensation of the left medial calf muscles. Magnetic resonance image (MRI) showed homogenous high signal changes in the calf muscles on T2 images, which indicated DMI. After anticoagulation treatment, the patient had a fair recovery within 4 weeks and he could walk by himself thereafter. DMI is a rare complication of poorly controlled DM. It does have a characteristic clinical presentation and MRI findings. Increased clinical awareness is important for early recognition and correct treatment.
Insights
Diabetic muscle infarction (DMI) is a rare complication of diabetes mellitus. Early recognition through characteristic MRI findings and clinical awareness is crucial for prompt treatment and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Musculoskeletal Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Diabetic mellitus (DM) is a prevalent condition with numerous known complications.
- Diabetic muscle infarction (DMI) is an uncommon yet significant complication, often underdiagnosed.
- Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus is a primary risk factor for DMI development.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old male with a history of DM, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation presented with acute left lower leg pain and swelling.
- Physical examination revealed non-pitting, non-erythematous swelling with cold sensation in the left medial calf.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated homogenous high signal intensity on T2-weighted images in the affected calf muscles.
Findings:
- The clinical presentation and MRI findings were indicative of diabetic muscle infarction (DMI).
- The patient received anticoagulation therapy for the condition.
- The patient showed a fair recovery within 4 weeks, regaining independent ambulation.
Implications:
- DMI, though rare, presents with distinct clinical and imaging characteristics.
- Increased clinical suspicion and awareness are vital for the early diagnosis of DMI.
- Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, such as anticoagulation, can lead to favorable patient outcomes.
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