Idiopathic neurotrophic feet in blacks.

Black patients with idiopathic neurotrophic feet are described and analysed. Evidence is presented to show that the essential pathological lesion is a peripheral neuropathy caused by an excessive consumption of alcohol and a poor diet. It is characterised clinically by a peripheral neuropathy, perforating septic ulcers over pressure points, resorption, and clawing of toes, bilateral foot involvement, usually good foot pulses, and an offensive odour.