Antimicrobials in Infected Diabetic Foot

Diabetes is a common disease prevalent in both developed and developing countries associated with morbidity and mortality. In India the prevalence of diabetes is 12- 17% in urban and 2.5% in the rural population. Onset of type II diabetes occurs at a younger age among Indians, thereby giving ample time for development of the chronic vascular complications. Prevalence of the complications is higher in low socio-economic groups due to lack of glycemic control. Bacterial infections of the foot are commonly encountered in diabetic patients in clinical practice. Early recognition of lesions and prompt initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy is essential for controlling the infection and preventing morbidity. Diabetic foot infections are the leading cause (85%) for non traumatic lower extremity amputations. The sensitivity of organisms to drugs change over time, due to development of resistance and hence periodic surveillance studies will provide data for management of diabetic foot infections.This will benefit the postgraduate students and physicians in clinical settings.