[Diabetic foot syndrome]

Diabetic foot syndrome Abstract. Although a common and relevant complication of diabetes mellitus, diabetic foot syndrome still remains underdiagnosed. As major risk factors, diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease play a central role. Prevention of diabetic foot ulceration and diabetic foot infection is the cornerstone of care, pointing to the importance of patients and care givers education in regularly inspecting and examining the "foot at risk". In addition to already well implemented screening programs for retinopathy and nephropathy in patients with diabetes mellitus, guidelines must also focus on diabetic foot care. The Swiss guidelines help identifying the patient at risk and direct adequate management. Management of the diabetic foot is complex. The appropriate and immediate treatment involves healthcare professionals of different specialties. Therefore, a multidisciplinary team approach is highly recommended. The major objectives are to reduce complications, such as amputations, morbidity and mortality - and, last but not least, the economic burden of the disease.