Diabetic limb infections: identification of microorganisms and selection of treatment.

Polymicrobial lower limb infections are common complications among diabetic patients, yet their antimicrobial management remains mostly empiric. A retrospective study of the clinical circumstances of 74 patients accounting for 101 hospital admissions was performed. Risks for vascular disease, clinical and microbiologic evidence for infection, as well as antimicrobial drug selection in these patients, were compiled. Culture materials were obtained from either swab or incision and drainage techniques in 65 (64.4%) patients. Eighty-two (81.2%) patients received antimicrobial therapies. Of the 172 antimicrobial agents prescribed, cephalosporins were utilized 83 times. Twenty-nine (28.7%) patients received amputations. Average total hospital charges were $7,368 per hospital stay, $485 per day.