An unusually severe case of bullosis diabeticorum with marked morbidity ultimately resulting in bilateral trans-tibial amputation

Abstract

Bullosis diabeticorum is a spontaneous, non-inflammatory, blistering condition seen in patients with diabetes mellitus that can be diagnosed after excluding similar conditions. The lesions described in bullosis diabeticorum have been reported to typically resolve without any specific treatment or scarring and are often considered to be self-limiting. We report a case of a 49-year-old man with type 1 diabetes who presented with recurrent episodes of bullosis diabeticorum, complicated by infection and ultimately resulting in bilateral major amputations. This case highlights the fact that bullosis diabeticorum may not follow an uncomplicated self-limiting course and also the need for early recognition and prompt treatment of infection. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons.