Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Diabetic Foot Infections

1. Over 17% of patients with diabetic foot infections will undergo major amputation.

a) True
b) False

2. In patients with osteomyelitis, bone biopsy (BeBOP) is the only definitive way to determine the causative pathogen.

a) True
b) False

3. All patients with diabetic foot infections should be assessed for the presence and severity of peripheral artery disease (PAD).

a) True
b) False

4. The following can be used as initial studies for diagnosis of osteomyelitis of the foot:

a) Probe-to-bone test
b) X-rays
c) Procalcitonin (PCT)
d) All of the above

5. Patients with diabetic foot infections that have a HbA1C level greater than or equal to 8.0% are associated with increased lower extremity amputation.

a) True
b) False

6. The following circumstances require urgent surgical consultation with a diabetic foot infection:

a) Extensive gangrene
b) Necrotizing infection
c) Compartment syndrome
d) Severe lower limb ischemia
e) All of the above

7. Once a foot ulcer is healed, there is up to a 75% reoccurrence rate at five years.

a) True
b) False

8. Several measures can be taken to prevent ulcer recurrence, which include:

a) Avoid poorly fitting shoes
b) Not walking barefoot
c) Stop smoking, if you smoke
d) All of the above

9. Adjunctive wound therapies such as topical antiseptics, silver preparations, honey, and bacteriophage therapy are not recommended to address diabetic foot infections.

a) True
b) False