Peripheral arterial disease increases the risk of multidrug-resistant bacteria and amputation in diabetic foot infections

Abstract

Background/aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the microbiological profile and resistance rates of diabetic foot infections(DFIs) and to determine the effect of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) on the microbiology, clinical condition, and treatment outcomes.Materials and methods: Characteristics, laboratory and imaging data, and the treatment modalities of patients admitted to our hospitalwith a diagnosis of DFI (PEDIS classification 3–4) during 2005–2016 were analyzed according to the presence of PAD.Results: Of 112 patients who were included in this study, 86 (76.8%) had PAD. Patients with PAD were older and had higher amputationrates (P < 0.05). A microbiological profile of patients revealed a predominance of gram-positive bacteria (57.1%). Staphylococcus aureusand Streptococcus spp. were the most frequently encountered bacteria. Incidence of Pseudomonas spp. infection was higher in the PADgroup (P < 0.05). Of all patients, 24.1% had multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms in their wound cultures. Presence of MDRbacteria in patients with PAD was 4.9-fold higher than that in patients without PAD (P < 0.05).Conclusion: This retrospective study indicates that PAD has a significant role, especially in elderly patients with DFIs. Patients shouldbe promptly evaluated and treated for PAD to prevent infections with resistant microorganisms and limb loss.