Value of cystatin C in predicting recurrence in patients with severe diabetic foot and diabetic foot ulcer

Objective: Our objective is to investigate the risk factors and predictive ability of severe diabetic foot (DF) and diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Patients & methods: The efficacy of cystatin C in predicting the recurrence of DF and DFU was evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: The findings indicate that, in contrast to non-severe patients, severe cases exhibit elevated levels of cystatin C (p < 0.05). Additionally, a statistically significant increase in cystatin C levels was observed in the subgroup of patients with recurrent DFU (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Cystatin C emerged as a significant risk factor for severe DF and recurrent DFU, with the potential for predicting their occurrence. Plain language summaryOur study investigated risk factors and predictive markers for diabetic foot (DF) and diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Cystatin C is a protein that is produced naturally in the body. Although the link between cystatin C and long-lasting diabetic complications is known, its association with poor outcomes in patients with DF is not well understood. However, our study found that cystatin C may be a clinical indicator that can predict severe DF and recurrent DFU. Additionally, our findings suggest that serum albumin, a protein made by the liver, is a protective factor for severe DF and recurrence of DF, but an independent risk factor for the recurrence of severe DF and DF in lower-limb sclerotic occlusive disease. These results suggest that cystatin C may be a risk factor for severe DF and recurrent DFU and has potential as a predictor for these conditions.