This protocol addresses the management of diabetic foot ulcer presenting as a mild infection — a superficial ulcer with limited soft tissue involvement and minimal cellulitis — and outlines the structured clinical approach for this specific presentation.
The infection is classified as mild under the IDSA/IWGDF scheme: a superficial ulcer with limited soft tissue involvement and minimal surrounding cellulitis, without deeper extension or systemic signs of sepsis. This classification distinguishes it from moderate (deeper or more extensive) and severe (accompanied by systemic signs of sepsis) presentations, and from cases complicated by osteomyelitis. Correct classification determines the appropriate level and setting of care.
Management begins with wound cleansing and thorough debridement of necrotic tissue and surrounding callus. Empiric oral antibiotic therapy is initiated as part of the regimen. The complete protocol — including antibiotic selection rationale, monitoring parameters, and escalation criteria — is available in the full structured regimen.