Diabetic foot infections: a comprehensive overview

Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2019 Apr;23(2 Suppl):26-37. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_201904_17471.

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a micro-vascular complication, are associated with a substantial increase in morbidity and mortality. DFUs are a complicated mixture of neuropathy, peripheral arterial diseases, foot deformities, and infections. Foot infections are frequent and potentially devastating complications. Infection prospers in more than half of all foot ulcers and is the factor that most often leads to lower extremity amputation. The complications of microbial flora span the spectrum from superficial cellulitis to chronic osteomyelitis and gangrenous extremity lower limb amputations. Wounds without confirmed soft tissue or bone infections do not require antibiotic therapy. Mild and moderate infections need empiric therapy covering Gram-positive cocci, while severe infections caused by drug-resistant organisms require broad-spectrum anti-microbials targeting aggressive Gram-negative aerobes and obligate anaerobes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Bacteria, Anaerobic / drug effects
  • Diabetes Complications / diagnosis*
  • Diabetes Complications / drug therapy
  • Diabetes Complications / microbiology
  • Diabetic Foot / diagnosis*
  • Diabetic Foot / drug therapy
  • Diabetic Foot / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Osteomyelitis / complications
  • Osteomyelitis / drug therapy
  • Osteomyelitis / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents