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Question
My husband has had type 2 diabetes for about two years now, and about a year ago, he developed sores on the calves of his legs. Since then, we have been bounced from pillar to post.His endocrinologist minimizes the problem and sends my husband to skin doctors who repeatedly treat the sores with steroid creams which have proceeded to worsen the problem. My husband develops recurring infections requiring antibiotics. His condition is worsening, we are afraid, and we don't know where to turn. You seem to have heard it all. Does this sound familiar? We will appreciate any and all help and direction you can give us. We are changing endocrinologists soon in hopes of getting some help.
Answer
Recurrent sores on the skin on the lower extremities are extremely worrisome, and I'm surprised that the endocrinologist is "minimizing" the situation. Have you actually been in the office with your husband, or are you only hearing the story second-hand of what the doctor thinks?In any case, if the present doctors are unable to successfully treat the condition, your husband should definitely ask for a referral. I'd suggest that another dermatologist (perhaps at an academic institution such as a medical school) might be next, or perhaps a vascular surgeon if the doctors suspect inadequate blood supply to allow healing.
Also, has a biopsy of the lesions been done? And if infectious, cultures of whatever organisms might be lurking? Your husband has the right to ask what was found, or if not done, why not.
