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Diabetic Foot Ulcer Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

These factors increase your chance of developing a foot ulcer. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

  • Sores, ulcers, or blisters on the foot or lower leg
  • Pain
  • Walking with difficulty
  • Discoloration in feet: black, blue, or red
  • Cold feet
  • Swollen foot or ankle
  • Fever, skin redness or swelling, or other signs of infection

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your primary doctor may refer you to a foot specialist or podiatrist.

Tests may include the following:

  • Wound culture to determine if an infection is present
  • X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones; to determine if there is evidence of infection in the bones ( osteomyelitis )
  • CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body; to evaluate a suspected pocket of pus called an abscess
  • MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body; to evaluate a suspected pocket of pus called an abscess
  • Doppler or arteriographic studies —to assess for adequate blood flow to feet, which is necessary for healing
  • Blood glucose and glycohemoglobin test
  • Complete blood count to determine if there is an infection—A high white blood cell count may mean that there is an infection.

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