The combination of sensory neuropathy, ischemia and direct adverse eff
ect on host defense mechanisms makes patients with diabetes vulnerable
to foot infections. A high degree of clinical suspicion and vigilance
is necessary for early diagnosis of soft tissue infections and their
differentiation from noninfected ulcers. Diagnosis and assessment depe
nd primarily on clinical history and physical examination, although ra
diographs, scans and laboratory tests may also provide useful clinical
data. The ability to detect bone in the base of an ulcer with a blunt
sterile probe may be particularly useful in assisting the recognition
of osteomyelitis. Most non-limb-threatening infections are caused by
Gram-positive cocci, but more serious infections are often polymicrobi
al. Effective treatment is based on a comprehensive strategy of wound
care, avoidance of weight bearing, optimal metabolic control, appropri
ate antibiotic use and, possibly, surgical intervention.