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Charcot foot associated with chronic alcohol abuse
Christina Arapostathi1, Nicholas Tentolouris, Edward B Jude
1Department of Diabetes, Tameside Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Ashton under Lyne, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|April 9, 2013
Summary
Charcot foot deformity, often linked to diabetes, can occur in patients with chronic alcohol abuse. Early treatment with offloading, casting, and special shoes can effectively manage symptoms and prevent deformity progression.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Charcot foot deformity is a serious complication typically associated with diabetes mellitus.
- Chronic alcohol abuse is an underrecognized risk factor for developing Charcot neuroarthropathy.
- This case series explores the presentation and management of Charcot foot in non-diabetic patients with a history of alcohol abuse.
Observation:
- Two patients with chronic alcohol abuse presented with painful, swollen, and warm midfoot deformities.
- Initial inflammatory markers were negative, complicating early diagnosis.
- Imaging confirmed Charcot deformity in affected feet.
Findings:
- Treatment involved offloading with casting and specialized footwear.
- Patients experienced significant improvement in foot swelling and temperature following treatment.
- Radiographs at 1 and 2 years post-diagnosis showed no further progression of the Charcot deformity.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering alcohol abuse as a potential cause of Charcot foot in non-diabetic individuals.
- Emphasizes the efficacy of conservative management, including offloading, in treating this condition.
- Suggests that early intervention can prevent long-term progression and preserve foot function.
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