- Clinical and Experimental Health Sciences
- Vol: 9 Issue: 3
- Association Between Onychomycosis and Foot Ulcers in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Association Between Onychomycosis and Foot Ulcers in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors : Haci Hasan Abuoglu, Emre Gunay, Sevil Ozkan, Hakan Uzunoglu, Riza Adaleti, Cebrail Akyuz, Bulent Kaya
Pages : 261-264
Doi:10.33808/clinexphealthsci.564081
View : 13 | Download : 3
Publication Date : 2019-09-30
Article Type : Research
Abstract :Objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with many serious health complications such as diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Onychomycosis increases the risk for foot disorders and limb amputation in DM patients, and if untreated, can result in tissue degradation and DFU. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between the incidences of onychomycosis and DFU. Methods: This study included 40 DM patients with DFU (study group) and 40 DM patients without FU (control group). Samples were obtained from the most affected part of the nail. The deep-nail plaque of the right toe was preferred in patients with normal toenail appearance. In addition, mycological examinations were conducted. Values of p<0.01 were considered as significant. Results: No significant difference was observed between the two groups with respect to age, sex, and hemoglobin A1c levels (p<0.01). However, the incidence of onychomycosis and use of insulin were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Onychomycosis might be associated with development of FU in patients with DM. By treating onychomycosis early, foot amputation can be preventedKeywords : Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Foot, Risk Factors, Onychomycosis