A case of hand ulceration in the diabetic foot clinic--a reminder of hand neuropathy in 'at risk' patients.

BACKGROUND

A case of hand ulceration in a diabetic patient with known lower extremity complications is presented. Although often asymptomatic, quantitative testing in patients indicates reduced hand sensation in patients with lower extremity neuropathy. Hand neuropathy may occasionally lead to anaesthetic injuries, particularly in certain 'manual' occupations, as seen in our patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Education on hand care is virtually nonexistent in most clinic settings, and our case highlights the need for more awareness on this potentially troublesome complication.