Perforating Ulcer of the Foot.

Perforating Ulcer of the Foot.

Describe perforating ulcer of the foot.

Perforating ulcer of the foot is a rare disease, consisting of an indolent and usually painless sinus leading down to diseased bone. The external opening, which is through the centre of a corn-like formation, is small, and may or may not show the presence of granulations. The affected part is commonly more or less anæsthetic and of subnormal temperature. One or several may be present, either on one or both feet. The most common site is over the articulation of the metatarsal bone with the phalanx of the first or last toe. The disease is dependent upon impairment or degeneration of the central, truncal or peripheral nerves.

What is to be said in regard to the prognosis and treatment?

Treatment, which is, as a rule, unsatisfactory, consists in the maintenance of absolute rest, and the use of antiseptic and stimulating applications. Amputation is also resorted to, but even this is at times futile, as a new sinus may appear upon the stump.