నైరూప్య

Dermatological Modifications in the Feet of People with Diabetes Mellitus that are Being Monitored in Primary Care

Vívian Saraiva Veras, Maria Girlane Sousa Albuquerque Brandão*, Anne Caroline Ferreira Queiroga, Dyana Mirelle Cunha Santos Pinheiro, Luciana Catunda Gomes De Menezes and Thiago Moura De Araújo

Objective: To identify dermatological changes in the feet of people with diabetes mellitus that are being monitored in Primary Care. Materials and methods: Epidemiological study accomplished in the countryside of Ceará, Brazil, with 135 people with diabetes. For the data gathering, interviews, evaluation of medical handbooks and physical examination of the feet for the identification of dermatological changes were performed. Fisher’s test was used, with a confidence level of 95% and a significance level of 5%. Results: There was a predominance of cracks, decreased/ absent hair growth, xeroderma, onychomycosis, peeling, and calluses. Regarding the clinical evaluation and the plantar sensitivity of the feet, there was evidence of a decrease in the dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses, in addition to changes in the plantar sensitivity and the vibration sensitivity of both feet. Conclusion: One needs to develop educational activities that support the practice of physical activities, empowerment, selfcare and a periodic evaluation of the feet in Primary Care.