Consequences of misdiagnosis of diabetic Charcot arthropathy of the ankle

Abstract

Permanent deformity and disability can occur in diabetic Charcot arthropathy (neuropathic arthropathy) if not diagnosed and treated promptly. We report two patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus in whom the diagnosis of ankle neuro-arthropathy was delayed by up to six months, with misdiagnoses including ankle arthritis, osteomyelitis and cellulitis. The clinical scenario and appearances of the ankle and foot were typical of Charcot arthropathy. Unfortunately, both of them sustained ankle fracture-dislocation without a history of significant trauma. Both the patients were treated by ankle arthrodesis (fusion of joint). Prevention and early diagnosis of diabetic foot is the key to avoid the development of complications. In diabetic patients, a higher index of suspicion for the possibility of Charcot’s disease is needed. Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 83-86

Keywords

• Diabetes mellitus
• Charcot arthropathy
• ankle fracture-dislocation
• arthrodesis