Clinical picture of diabetic osteoarthropathy.

On the basis of data from pertinent literature and of a thorough examination of 23 cases observed by himself the author illustrates findings concerned the occurrence, clinical picture and interrelations of clinical and radiological symptoms in diabetic osteoarthropathy. These alterations occur most frequently in middleaged or elderly diabetic patients with unstable metabolism or poor control, usually after a long duration of diabetes. Clinical symptoms are divided into 4 groups. Neurological symptoms (group I) are detectable at every stage of the process. Sometimes bone destruction is concomitant but neurological changes are the sole symptoms. Loose joints and articular swelling (group II) are frequently premonitory signs of bone alterations. Plantar ulcers (group III) are often associated with bone changes. Detectable foot deformities (group IV) are mostly an indication of the end stage of the process.