[Vascular complications of diabetes]

Vascular complications are common in diabetics. Patients with type I diabetes mellitus may be more likely to suffer microvascular complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy), whereas patients with type II diabetes may be more likely to have macrovascular complications (similar to atherosclerotic disease). Amputation rates are 10 to 15 times more common in the diabetic than in the non diabetic. A meticulous examination (historical and physical) combined with doppler ultrasonography will indicate the presence of peripheral vascular disease in the diabetic. Such an evaluation enables correct management of the risk factors and ensures an appropriate follow-up and treatment of the diabetes related lesions as soon as they occur.