GLOBAL APPROACH TO THE PATIENT WITH DIABETIC FOOT: A REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: The review article highlights the importance of the sole of the foot in ambulation and its adaptation to human needs. It focuses on diabetic foot (DF), dened by signs, symptoms, or ulcers on the foot due to chronic complications of diabetes. DF affects approximately 25 % of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), with ulcers that can lead to severe infections and risk of amputation. Managing DF is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach. This article proposes a "Diabetic Foot Evaluation and Treatment System," applicable in various clinical settings, which classies ulcers according to their depth and infection and provides clear treatment guidelines. The epidemiology of diabetic neuropathy (DN) is also discussed, highlighting its high prevalence and morbidity, and the need for adequate diagnosis and treatment. The article provides a detailed analysis of Charcot neuropathy, a severe complication of DF, including its causes and diagnostic methods. Furthermore, the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of DF ulcers is emphasized to reduce amputations and improve patients' quality of life. DF infections and antibiotic therapy are also addressed, recommending the use of appropriate antibiotics according to the severity of the infection and the performance of precise microbiological cultures. Finally, a comprehensive view of DF management is presented, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and proposing an effective evaluation and treatment system that can be implemented in various clinical contexts.