Endocrine Abstracts

Background and aims: The diabetic hand infection is less reported in the literature. Therefore, it is easily ignored and underestimated resulting in increased morbidity among the diabetic population. The aim is to determine the clinical and therapeutic characteristics in our hospitalized patients.

Materials and methods: All hand infection patients admitted to the Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology at Oran University Hospital center during 10 years were reviewed retrospectively. A hand infection was defined as any Infection of the upper extremity in hospitalized diabetic patients. Thirty three patients with hand infection were found. Their etiology identified from clinical history and examination, number of operations and management, hospital stay and outcome-like amputation were recorded. Data collected were entered into a computer database using IBM SPSS Statistics 20 and analyzed using the same application.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 54±2.44 years (range 23–76 years). 21 patients (64%) were male and 12 (36%) were female. Male to female ratio was 1, 75:1 (dominantly males). All male patients were manual workers (Carpenter, Farmers and Blacksmith), female were also having active life (Housewives). The mean duration of diabetes before presentation was 10.6±7.2 years; three of the patients were newly diagnosed at presentation. The lesions consisted of cellulitis, phlegmon or ulceration of the finger, hand, and arm. During the course of treatment, seven patients (21.2%) required amputation of one or more digits of the dominant hand. But no patient required amputation of forearm, arm or hand.

Conclusion: Diabetic hand involves persons in active life period relatively in younger age group. Undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes is major contributory factor. Health Education, early diagnosis & prompt treatment in specialized units may be helpful.