Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy is a rare, destructive process affecting the bones and joints of feet in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The aetiology of Charcot remains unknown, although it has been suggested that it is triggered by the occurrence of inflammation in the foot of a susceptible individual, and that the inflammation results in increased osteoclastic activity. The increased bone turnover in acute Charcot is associated with increased concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, related signalling peptides and bone turnover markers.Background
Hypothesis