Diabetic Foot Infection, Mild

It is essential that cases of mild diabetic foot infection are managed in conjunction with Podiatry. An assessment of vascular sufficiency should be performed. Refer to OUH Acute Foot Pathway (Acute Foot Pathway)

Mild diabetic foot infection is defined as: 2 or more of the following

• local swelling or induration
• erythema (less than 2cm around ulcer)
• local tenderness or pain
• local warmth
• purulent discharge

A wound sample should be taken prior to/as soon as possible after starting antibiotics. Superficial swabs have limited diagnostic value, so preference should be made for a deep swab, collection of pus, tissue sample (by an appropriately trained clinician) or surgical cultures.

Cases are typically treated with oral antibiotics for 7 days.

Review empirical treatment within 48-72 hours