Assessing the features of diabetic foot ulcers among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Thi Qar, Iraq

Abstract

Background:

This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of diabetic foot ulcers in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Iraq.

Methods:

The study included 881 participants with T2DM and different types of foot ulcers, who attended a specialized diabetes center. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, biochemical investigations, comorbidities, and treatment regimens were collected and analyzed.

Results:

The majority of the cases (96.8%) were due to T2DM, with an average age of 58 years and a mean BMI of 30 kg/m². Participants had elevated serum creatinine, blood urea, and glucose levels, with uncontrolled HbA1c levels. Comorbidities included hypertension, ischemic heart disease, diabetic neuropathy, and retinopathy. Most participants were on insulin and statins. Diabetic foot ulcers were mainly on the right foot (48%) and classified as Grade 2 in Wagner's system. Some participants had Charcot deformity or stages of amputation.

Conclusions:

Random plasma glucose levels and diabetic retinopathy were significantly associated with the classification of foot ulcers. Further research is needed to explore additional variables related to T2DM and foot ulcers, emphasizing the importance of glucose control and retinopathy in ulcer classification