Diagnostic imaging of the diabetic foot

Nucl Med Rev Cent East Eur. 2010;13(1):18-22.

Abstract

Diabetic foot syndrome is a significant complication of diabetes. Diagnostic imaging is a crucial factor determining surgical decision and extent of surgical intervention. At present the gold standard is MRI scanning, whilst the role of bone scanning is decreasing, although in some cases it brings valuable information. In particular, in early stages of osteitis and Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy, radionuclide imaging may be superior to MRI. Additionally, a significant contribution of inflammation-targeted scintigraphy should be noted. Probably the role of PET scanning will grow, although its high cost and low availability may be a limiting factor. In every case, vascular status should be determined, at least with Doppler ultrasound, with following conventional angiography or MR angiography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic / diagnosis
  • Arthropathy, Neurogenic / etiology
  • Blood Vessels / diagnostic imaging
  • Diabetic Foot / diagnosis*
  • Diabetic Foot / diagnostic imaging
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Humans
  • Radiography
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Ultrasonography