Ulcer (dermatology)
Ulcer (dermatology)
An ulcer (pronounced: /ˈʌlsər/) in dermatology refers to a break in the skin or an open sore in the skin, often caused by an initial abrasion and generally maintained by an inflammation and/or an infection.
Etymology
The term "ulcer" comes from the Latin ulcus, which means "sore" or "wound".
Types of Ulcers
There are several types of ulcers that can occur on the skin, including:
- Pressure ulcer: These ulcers, also known as bedsores, are caused by pressure against the skin that limits blood flow to the skin.
- Venous ulcer: These ulcers occur when the veins in the legs do not return blood back to the heart as they should. This can cause blood to pool in the leg veins and lead to ulcers.
- Arterial ulcer: These ulcers occur when there is a blockage in the arteries, usually in the legs, that prevents blood from reaching tissues.
- Neuropathic ulcer: These ulcers occur in people who have nerve damage (neuropathy), which can cause a loss of sensation in the affected areas.
Symptoms
Symptoms of skin ulcers can include:
- Redness and swelling
- Pain
- A thick discharge or pus
- A foul odor
- Fever
Treatment
Treatment for skin ulcers depends on the cause and severity of the ulcer. Treatment options can include:
- Antibiotics: To treat any infection present.
- Pain management: To help control pain associated with the ulcer.
- Wound care: To clean and dress the ulcer to promote healing.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove dead tissue or to help improve blood flow.
Prevention
Prevention of skin ulcers can include:
- Regular skin checks to look for signs of ulcers.
- Keeping the skin clean and dry.
- Using moisturizers to prevent skin from drying out.
- Changing positions regularly to prevent pressure ulcers.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ulcer (dermatology)
- Wikipedia's article - Ulcer (dermatology)
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