Use of homologous platelet gel to manage refractory diabetic lower extremity ulcers: additional experience at a tertiary hospital.

Background: DLEUs are a major cause of morbidity. Appropriate treatment is essential, and newer methods to achieve ulcer healing have been described, including application of PG.

Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of homologous PG in patients with chronic noninfected DLEU refractory to standard treatment as well as possible correlations between patient comorbidities and response to treatment.

Evolutionary trends in bacteria isolated from moderate and severe diabetic foot infections in a Portuguese tertiary center.

Introduction: Diabetic Foot infections (DFI) are a major cause of hospitalization in patients with diabetes. The microbiological study of diabetic ulcers is essential to adequate antibiotic therapy and to minimize the selection of resistant microorganisms. The aim of this study was to characterize and to compare the evolution of isolated microorganisms between the biennium 2010-2011 and 2016-2017, in hospitalized patients with DFI.

Topic platelet gel application in chronic diabetic foot ulcers.

Unlabelled: In this observational study performed during 45 months we evaluated patients with chronic and recalcitrant diabetic ulcers who were treated with homologous platelet gel.

Methods: platelet gels were obtained from homologous platelet concentrates that were aliquoted and freezed, being then activated with calcium gluconate and applied in the ulcer after cleaning and debridement. We evaluated patient's comorbidities, wound characteristics (size, tissue, inflammatory signs, pain), number and time of treatment as well as outcome (classified as complete epithelialization; partial improvement- 50% reduction in wound size or pain relief; no evolution).

[The Neuropad test in the screening of peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients].

One of the first signs of peripheral neuropathy is the loss of perspiration of the feet. Untill now, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test has been considered the gold test to detect early peripheral neuropathy. Recently, the Neuropad test has become available: it is a cobalt salt plaster designed to change colour from blue to pink in contact with liquids, namely sweating.