The role of proinflammatory cytokines in the cause of neuropathic osteoarthropathy (acute Charcot foot) in diabetes

SummaryThe pathogenesis of the acute Charcot foot of diabetes remains unclear. All patients with this condition have evidence of peripheral neuropathy, with loss of protective sensation and abnormal foot biomechanics. However, the acute Charcot foot is also characterised by a pronounced inflammatory reaction and the pathogenic significance of this inflammation has received little attention. We suggest that an initial insult—which may or may not be detected—is sufficient to trigger an inflammatory cascade through increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNFα and interleukin 1β. This cascade then leads to increased expression of the nuclear transcription factor, NF-κB, which results in increased osteoclastogenesis. Osteoclasts cause progressive bone lysis, leading to further fracture, which in turn potentiates the inflammatory process. The potential role of proinflammatory cytokines suggests the possibility of new treatments for this sometimes devastating complication of diabetes.