Late Presentation of Diabetic Foot Ulcer in a Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Patient

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are one of the most serious complications of diabetes mellitus and the second most common cause of amputation in Nigeria. The aim of this case report is to present the consequences of late presentation of a DFU. A 47‑year‑old man who has been a type 1 diabetic for 19 years with an haemoglobin A1c level of 5.6% presented to our facility with a discharging left foot wound of two months’ duration. Examination revealed a left foot that was edematous with areas of necrosis discharging pus from the dorsum of the foot. He had a below‑knee amputation and received postamputation rehabilitation. DFUs require a multidisciplinary approach to their management. It is important that individuals with diabetes are educated about DFUs as part of a preventive measure in addition to diet, exercise, and medication.