Diabetes mellitus is increasing in prevalence globally and is associated with significant morbidity, much of which arises from foot complications. Infective foot complications include a spectrum of conditions ranging from ulcers, pyomyositis, abscess formation, and septic arthritis to osteomyelitis. These can be difficult to diagnose or differentiate clinically, with imaging being an important component of the diagnostic algorithm. Radiographs have limited sensitivity and specificity, especially early in the disease process. Ultrasound imaging may be useful for targeted evaluation of the soft tissues but is unable to accurately diagnose and evaluate the extent of osteomyelitis. Computed tomography is useful to evaluate for bone lesions in osteomyelitis as well as to guide percutaneous bone biopsies. Three-phase bone scintigraphy is sensitive but has limited specificity. Magnetic resonance imaging with its superior soft tissue resolution is the modality of choice, providing valuable information of both the soft tissues and bone, which helps guide surgical treatment. Knowing the characteristic imaging features of diabetic foot complications, particularly infection, as well as its potential mimics aids in timely diagnosis and treatment.

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Imaging of Diabetic Foot Infections

  • Amos H. S. Tan,
  • Loon Ying Tan,
  • Swee-Tian Quek

摘要

Diabetes mellitus is increasing in prevalence globally and is associated with significant morbidity, much of which arises from foot complications. Infective foot complications include a spectrum of conditions ranging from ulcers, pyomyositis, abscess formation, and septic arthritis to osteomyelitis. These can be difficult to diagnose or differentiate clinically, with imaging being an important component of the diagnostic algorithm. Radiographs have limited sensitivity and specificity, especially early in the disease process. Ultrasound imaging may be useful for targeted evaluation of the soft tissues but is unable to accurately diagnose and evaluate the extent of osteomyelitis. Computed tomography is useful to evaluate for bone lesions in osteomyelitis as well as to guide percutaneous bone biopsies. Three-phase bone scintigraphy is sensitive but has limited specificity. Magnetic resonance imaging with its superior soft tissue resolution is the modality of choice, providing valuable information of both the soft tissues and bone, which helps guide surgical treatment. Knowing the characteristic imaging features of diabetic foot complications, particularly infection, as well as its potential mimics aids in timely diagnosis and treatment.