Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Skin Ulcer

A skin ulcer is a painful, open sore on the skin that often takes a long time to heal. There are several causes of skin ulcers, including:

Venous insufficiency: a condition in which blood flow from the legs back to the heart is impaired, leading to swelling and skin ulcers.

Arterial insufficiency: a condition in which there is reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, leading to skin ulcers.

Diabetic foot ulcers: skin ulcers that occur in people with diabetes, often due to peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation.

Pressure ulcers: skin ulcers that occur when there is constant pressure on a specific area of skin, such as from a bed or wheelchair.

Infections: skin ulcers can be caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.

Treatment for skin ulcers depends on the underlying cause, but may include:

Wound care: cleaning the wound and keeping it moist to promote healing.

Compression therapy: using bandages or stockings to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.

Antibiotics: to treat infections.

Debridement: removing dead tissue from the wound to promote healing.

Pain management: to control pain associated with the ulcer.

It’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of skin ulcers, as some can lead to serious complications if left untreated.