DFSG research group: “Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy of the Foot in Diabetes: monitoring of evolution and resolution”

Background of the project:

Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy is a potentially limb threatening condition with bone and joint destruction that mainly affects patients with diabetes and neuropathy. Excessive local inflammation due to repeated injury or trauma that results in abundant local bone resorption is thought to play a key role in Charcot pathogenesis.

The diagnosis of Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy is based on clinical manifestation and imaging studies (plain X-rays, bone scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging). In terms of management, immediate off-loading is recommended, while surgery is reserved for chronic cases with irreparable abnormalities and/or joint instability or severe foot deformity failing a conservative approach.

However, data regarding the most appropriate monitoring technique to assess for length or treatment and disease resolutions limited.

Who are we?

The DFSG initiated a group of early career academics/clinicians/scientists who will be supported by a group of multi-disciplinary mentors with a profound understanding of the Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy. This group will work on the field of “Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy of the Foot in Diabetes: monitoring of evolution and resolution”. The overarching aim of the group is to explore the evolution and resolution of acute Charcot foot in diabetes.

In May 2021 seven applicants from across Europe were selected, and the first meeting of the young scientist and mentors took place in July 2021.

Mentors of the project:

Nina Petrova, United Kingdom
Anna Korzon, Poland
Alexandra Jirkovska, Czech Republic
Armin Koller, Germany
Frances Game, United Kingdom