Confronting a dramatic situation: The charcot foot complicated by osteomyelitis

Charcot osteoarthropathy is a serious complication of diabetic neuropathy. Its prevalence in the diabetic population varies in the literature in relation to certain variables, such as the method of assessment, clinical or instrumental; the population studied; and the scope of the selection. This article is intended as a review of the recent literature concerning Charcot osteoarthropathy in its evolution and complications characterized by the development of ulceration and subsequent bone infection. Diagnosis and treatment strategies - either medical or surgical - are discussed both for Charcot arthropathy and osteomyelitis.