A skin ulcer on the foot or lower leg in a person with diabetes needs a pulse check, monofilament or other sensory testing, and assessment for infection. Examine between the toes and the heel, and remove callus to see the true wound.
Refer early to a diabetic foot or vascular service when there is ischaemia, deep infection or exposed bone.
- Palpate foot pulses and test sensation.
- Look between toes and under callus.
- Probe for bone and consider imaging if osteomyelitis is possible.
- Refer early if ischaemia, deep infection or exposed bone is present.
Why it matters
Delayed referral is a recognised contributor to avoidable amputation.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for dermatology, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free