Presentations of diabetic feet
M. A. Pliskin, W. F. Todd and G. W. Edelson
Monsignor Clement Kern Hospital, Warren, Mich.
Those afflicted with diabetes mellitus have high rates of morbidity and
mortality owing to the many complications of the disease. The complications
can manifest themselves as ophthalmic, renal, vascular, neurologic, and
pedal diseases. Unfortunately, the most often overlooked or neglected
complications involve the feet. It is estimated that in the United States
foot disease is five times more prevalent in diabetic patients than in
those without diabetes. In fact, 20% of all diabetic patients admitted to
hospitals in the United States are admitted for foot disease, with foot and
ankle ulcers being the most common presentation.
