Pyoderma gangrenosum
Introduction
Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare skin condition thatcauses painful ulcers. It's usually treatable, but may take some time to heal and may leave some scarring.
It usually suddenly starts as a small pimple, red bump or blood blister. The skin then breaks down into a painful ulcer with a purple or blue edge, whichmay ooze fluid.
The ulcer can rapidly get bigger and deeper, and several may develop in the area. If the ulcer gets infected, you may also feel unwell and develop a high temperature (fever).
Pyoderma gangrenosumusually affects thelegs, although it can affect any area of skin, including around the head and neck, arms and genitals. Occasionally, it develops around the site of an injury or surgical wound (see what causes pyoderma gangrenosum? below).
Despite the similar-sounding name,pyoderma gangrenosum is not related to Gangrene .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 16 Jan 2017
Introduction
Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare skin condition that causes painful ulcers. It's usually treatable, but may take some time to heal and may leave some scarring.
When to seek medical advice
You should seek medical advice as soon as possible if you think you may have developed pyoderma gangrenosum. Either see your GP or contact your care team if you have one of the conditions mentioned be
Who is affected
Pyoderma gangrenosumis seen in men and women of any age, but usually affects young and middle-aged adults. People with the following health conditions are particularly susceptible: inflammatory b
What causes pyoderma gangrenosum?
The exact cause of pyoderma gangrenosum is not understood, but it's thought to be areaction to a disease or illness, such as the health conditions listed above. However, about halfof all peoplewith p
Diagnosing pyoderma gangrenosum
There is no specificblood test for pyoderma gangrenosum. If your doctor thinks you might have the condition, they may take a sample of your skin (a biopsy ) to examine under the microscope in a labor
How pyoderma gangrenosum is treated
Pyoderma gangrenosum is treatable, but may take some time to heal. Theres no clear evidence to suggest what the best treatment is, but the main treatments are outlined below. Care of the wound Dress
Outlook
In many people with pyoderma gangrenosum, the ulcers heal with relatively simple treatments. However, some scarring in the affected area is common. The progression of the condition varies from person
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