Occasionally, the atlantooccipital membrane may be partially ossified, resulting in an apparent bone fragment posterior to the superior articular process. This should not be confused with a fracture of the atlas or occipital condyle (Figs. 8A and 8B).
Belinda Childs, MN, ARNP, BC-ADM, CDE, responds. Skin abscesses, also known as boils, are more common in people with uncontrolled diabetes. They are usually caused by bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus, but the abscesses can also be caused by other bacteria.
Dry and itchy skin in diabetics is primarily caused by high blood sugar. The body pulls moisture from tissues to try to counteract the increase in glucose levels, and can leave the skin dry and irritated. Other causes of itching are caused by fungal or yeast infections, diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation. Nerve damage can reduce the body's ability to sweat, drying out the skin. Poor circulation, neuropathy and infections can cause numerous problems in the extremities of diabetics, especially the feet.