Diabetic Foot Infection: An Indian Scenario

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Diabetes mellitus is assuming epidemic proportions and with that an increasing burden of diabetic foot complications. Diabetic foot infections (DFIs) contribute not only to morbidity, amputation, and increased health-care costs but also to mortality. Aim To review the literature regarding the epidemiology and management of DFIs in India. Results The socioepidemiology of diabetic foot and its complications in India is different from the West. There is a considerable delay in seeking a physician for foot problems, as patients continue invalidated and indigenous methods of treatment. At presentation, most of the foot ulcers are chronic, harbor infection, and neuropathic in origin compared to the West with predominantly neurovascular ulcers. A predominance of Gram-negative bacterial species is reported in DFIs, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the most common isolated organism. An initial empirical antibiotic choice covering Gram-negative bacteria is suggested. Conclusion There are very few studies on the countrywide prevalence of foot complications from India. In India, DFIs behave differently from the West because of sociocultural and economic differences. We need indigenous ways for prevention and management of DFIs in India. How to cite this article Rastogi A, Bhansali A. Diabetic Foot Infection: An Indian Scenario. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2016;3(2):71-79.