Skin and Soft Tissue Infections in the Diabetic Patient.

Diabetes mellitus predisposes to skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), particularly but not exclusively in the feet. Hyperglycemia causes inflammation that disrupts the host immune system and leads to vascular and neurological injury, both of which contribute to infection risk and challenge diagnosis and management. A greater incidence of drug-resistant, polymicrobial, and deep SSTIs among persons with diabetes impacts antimicrobial selection and the need for surgical intervention. Diabetic foot ulcers are at substantial risk of recurrent infection and require a multifaceted preventative approach.