Diabetologia
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Infection of diabetic foot ulcers is common; at early stages it is difficult to differentiate between non-infected ulcers (or those colonised with normal flora) and ulcers infected with virulent bacteria that lead to deterioration. This pilot study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of inflammatory markers as an aid to making this distinction. ⋯ Measurement of only two inflammatory markers, CRP and procalcitonin, might be of value for distinguishing between infected and non-infected foot ulcers in subgroups of diabetic patients, to help ensure the appropriate allocation of antibiotic treatment. Nevertheless, external validation of the diagnostic value of procalcitonin and CRP in diabetic foot ulcers is needed before routine use can be recommended.