Abstract

It is difficult to predict who will develop Charcot osteoarthropathy (Charcot foot), mainly due its poorly understood aetiology. Although Charcot foot is often difficult to diagnose in its early stages, recent studies suggest that early pharmacological treatment to inhibit osteoclast activity may alter the natural history of Charcot foot (Jude et al, 2001; Pitocco et al, 2005; Tan et al, 2005). If those at risk of developing Charcot foot could be identified, treatment could be instigated at the first suspicion of a neuropathic joint developing, thus reducing morbidity and mortality. In this study, the authors investigated the metabolic and clinical characteristics of a small cohort of people with Charcot foot and compared them with people with diabetes both with and without significant sensory neuropathy. The main aim was to identify risk markers for the development of Charcot foot.