|
Year |
2003 |
|---|---|
|
Question Number |
253. |
|
Category |
Foot and Ankle |
Question
Which of the following is the best predictor of an increased risk for foot complications in a patient with diabetes mellitus?
1- Diabetes type (type I versus type II)
2- Elevated level of hemoglobin AC1
3- Use of insulin
4- Associated renal dysfunction (dialysis or transplantation)
5- History of a foot ulcer
Figures
Answer (click for answer)
Answer: 5
The best predictor of an increased risk factor for foot complications in a patient with DM is a history of a foot ulcer. This is a repeat question from previous years. One important fact needs to be known to answer this question: the severity of diabetes-related complications is NOT related to disease severity. Thus, Type II or noninsulin-dependent diabetics have more complications than Type I or IDDM. Thus, choices 1-3 are wrong and renal dysfunction does not predict foot complications.
Reference: OKU: Foot and Ankle 2. 1998, pp 113-121
Foot Ankle Int 1999;20:695-702