An introduction to diabetic foot ulcers
It is estimated that
approximately 15% of
the more than 150 million people with diabetes
world-wide will at some stage develop diabetic foot ulceration.1
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease caused either by a deficiency in the production of insulin by the pancreas, or by the inability of the body to use the insulin produced. The condition needs constant monitoring to be kept in check and is linked to a number of serious complications such as vascular disease, retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy and diabetic foot ulcers.
Diabetic foot ulcers can be associated with:
- Increased risk of infection
- Reduction in mobility
- Diminished quality of life
Optimum management of diabetic foot ulcers is a key requirement in the care of patients with diabetes.
References [+]
- Boulton AJ. The diabetic foot: a global view. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2000;16(Suppl 1):S2-5.