Diabetic Foot Ulcer Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

These factors increase your chance of developing a foot ulcer. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

• Sores, ulcers, or blisters on the foot or lower leg
• Pain
• Walking with difficulty
• Discoloration in feet: black, blue, or red
• Cold feet
• Swollen foot or ankle
• Fever, skin redness or swelling, or other signs of infection

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your primary doctor may refer you to a foot specialist or podiatrist.

Tests may include the following:

• Wound culture to determine if an infection is present
• X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones; to determine if there is evidence of infection in the bones ( osteomyelitis )
• CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body; to evaluate a suspected pocket of pus called an abscess
• MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body; to evaluate a suspected pocket of pus called an abscess
• Doppler or arteriographic studies —to assess for adequate blood flow to feet, which is necessary for healing
• Blood glucose and glycohemoglobin test
• Complete blood count to determine if there is an infection—A high white blood cell count may mean that there is an infection.