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Retained Foreign Body in a Diabetic Patient's Hand
Frank Liaw1, Odhrán Murray1, Yan Yu Tan2
1Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Trauma & Orthopaedics, Glasgow, Scotland.
The Open Orthopaedics Journal
|July 17, 2018
Summary
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy increases risk of foreign body injury and delayed diagnosis. Early imaging is crucial for prompt identification and treatment of limb injuries in diabetic patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) impairs sensation, increasing risk of unnoticed foreign body injuries.
- DPN can delay presentation and diagnosis of acute limb conditions in diabetic patients.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male with type 1 diabetes presented with a three-week history of left thumb swelling and erythema.
- Initial treatment with antibiotics was ineffective, prompting further investigation.
Findings:
- Imaging revealed septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of the metacarpophalangeal joint.
- A retained foreign body was identified as the cause and surgically removed.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering retained foreign bodies in diabetic patients with limb injuries.
- Early radiological imaging is vital for timely diagnosis and management of peripheral limb injuries in high-risk diabetic populations.
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