Missing the boat: fatal ending to a missed case of Charcot arthropathy

Summary Acute Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy (CN) is a clinical entity which can easily go unrecognized in its acute early stages due to lack of awareness and unspecific presentation. However, missing early diagnosis can lead to severe complications. We present the case of a 72-year-old male patient who went through the natural course of the disease unnoticed before the very eyes of his physicians leading to a tragic end. We aim to raise awareness for this rare diabetic complication, emphasizing the necessity of early diagnosis and adequate, interdisciplinary treatment. Learning points: Clinical signs and symptoms of acute Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy (CN). Red flags. Importance of early diagnosis and correct treatment. Diagnostic challenges of acute CN. Awareness of high morbidity and mortality.

Charcot Neuropathic Arthropathy of the Foot: A Literature Review and Single-Center Experience

Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy of the foot is a relatively common complication of diabetic neuropathy. Incorrect diagnosis and improper treatment often result in the extremity having to be amputated. This paper summarises the current view on the etiology, diagnostics, and treatment of diabetic Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy, with particular focus on preserving the extremity through surgical intervention from our own experiences.