Foot pathology in insulin dependent diabetes
S J Barnett1, J P Shield, M J Potter
1Institute of Child Health, Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Children with insulin-dependent diabetes show higher rates of foot pathology, including biomechanical anomalies and skin issues, compared to non-diabetic peers. This highlights the need for increased podiatric care to prevent future complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Diabetology
- Podiatry
Background:
- Foot pathology is a significant cause of morbidity in adults with diabetes.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing diabetes-related complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of foot pathology in children with insulin-dependent diabetes.
- To compare foot health in diabetic children versus a matched non-diabetic control group.
Main Methods:
- Utilized questionnaires, clinical examinations, and biomechanical assessments.
- Included 67 children with insulin-dependent diabetes and a matched control group.
- Assessed foot pathology, biomechanical anomalies, and skin conditions.
Main Results:
- Diabetic children exhibited significantly higher rates of foot pathology (52 vs. 28).
- Increased biomechanical anomalies (58 vs. 34) and abnormal skin conditions (53 vs. 27) were observed in the diabetic group.
- Despite foot health education, diabetic children showed misconceptions, and podiatrist contact was minimal.
Conclusions:
- Children with diabetes have a greater incidence of foot pathology.
- Increased podiatric care is recommended for diabetic children to prevent long-term issues.
- Addressing knowledge gaps in foot health is essential for this population.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Pathophysiology of Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. The four categories of diabetes are type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, other specific types of diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility, suggesting a...
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility, suggesting a...
01:26Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
Type 1 diabetes mellitus arises from an immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β-cells, resulting in an absolute deficiency of insulin. This process develops in genetically susceptible individuals when autoimmunity, environmental exposures, and immunologic dysregulation converge to trigger a targeted attack on the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. The β-cells are located within the islets of Langerhans and are essential for regulating blood glucose by facilitating cellular uptake of...
01:19Type I Diabetes III: Clinical Manifestations
Type 1 diabetes mellitus typically presents with rapid-onset symptoms due to the body’s inability to utilize glucose in the absence of insulin. Since insulin is required for glucose uptake into cells, its deficiency leads to hyperglycemia and cellular energy deprivation, resulting in characteristic clinical features.Polyuria and PolydipsiaOne of the earliest, most prominent symptoms is polyuria (excessive urination). When blood glucose concentrations rise above the renal threshold, the kidneys...
01:24Type II Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
PathophysiologyType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM ) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and progressive pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, leading to impaired glucose homeostasis. It results from interactions among genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and metabolic stressors, such as overnutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Insulin Resistance and Glucose DysregulationEarly T2DM involves insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and the liver.
01:31Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Definition A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a chronic, non-healing wound that develops in individuals with diabetes. It typically occurs on pressure-bearing areas such as the heel, metatarsal heads, or hallux, and carries a high risk of infection and amputation.Pathophysiology • The development of DFUs can be explained by four interconnected mechanisms: neuropathy, ischemia, infection, and impaired wound healing. • Neuropathy is the most common factor. Sensory neuropathy reduces pain perception,...
01:22Diabetic Neuropathy
DefinitionDiabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by long-standing diabetes mellitus. It results directly from prolonged high blood sugar levels.PathophysiologyThe pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy involves both metabolic and vascular disturbances triggered by chronic hyperglycemia.Metabolic injury: Elevated glucose levels activate the polyol pathway within nerve cells, leading to the accumulation of sorbitol and fructose. This increases oxidative stress, disrupts normal nerve...