Confronting a dramatic situation: the charcot foot complicated by osteomyelitis

Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2014 Dec;13(4):247-62. doi: 10.1177/1534734614545875. Epub 2014 Aug 14.

Abstract

Charcot osteoarthropathy is a serious complication of diabetic neuropathy. Its prevalence in the diabetic population varies in the literature in relation to certain variables, such as the method of assessment, clinical or instrumental; the population studied; and the scope of the selection. This article is intended as a review of the recent literature concerning Charcot osteoarthropathy in its evolution and complications characterized by the development of ulceration and subsequent bone infection. Diagnosis and treatment strategies--either medical or surgical--are discussed both for Charcot arthropathy and osteomyelitis.

Keywords: Charcot osteoarthropathy; diabetic foot; diabetic foot surgery; osteomyelitis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic* / diagnosis
  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic* / etiology
  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic* / physiopathology
  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic* / therapy
  • Diabetic Foot* / diagnosis
  • Diabetic Foot* / drug therapy
  • Diabetic Foot* / etiology
  • Diabetic Foot* / physiopathology
  • Diabetic Foot* / surgery
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / complications*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disease Management
  • Disease Progression
  • Foot / diagnostic imaging
  • Foot / surgery
  • Humans
  • Osteomyelitis* / diagnosis
  • Osteomyelitis* / drug therapy
  • Osteomyelitis* / etiology
  • Osteomyelitis* / surgery
  • Patient Selection
  • Radiography