Hand infections in patients with diabetes mellitus

In a study of diabetic patients with hand infections reviewed at Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami School of Medicine, 20 such diabetic patients with hand infections were found. The most outstanding result was that seven of the 20 had amputation either to control infection or because the function of the extremity was impaired by the remaining ravaged part. Pathologic examination of tissue removed showed the same changes commonly seen in diabetic gangrene of the lower extremity. Electromyographic studies, when done, have been confirmatory of a peripheral neuropathy with delayed nerve conduction studies. The bacterial organisms of the infections were variable, but a predominance of Gram-negative organisms were cultured in twelve of the 20 patients. Early aggressive management, including surgical debridement and intravenous antibiotics, is recommended to prevent unnecessary amputations and improve residual function.