Abstract
Leg ulcers occur commonly and are associated with a decreased quality of life, significant morbidity, and high costs. During recent years, an increasing number of advances in wound-healing research have improved our understanding of the mechanisms of wound healing. Much attention has been focused on growth factors, cell-matrix interactions, and skin substitutes, as well as other areas of research. Yet even though new treatments have emerged, we still lack reliable and effective therapies that have been adequately tested in controlled trials, and chronic leg ulcers remain an enormous clinical problem. Causes of leg ulcers are multiple; venous and arterial disease and neuropathy predominate in the Western world. Infections and hemoglobinopathies are more common in the underdeveloped countries. The patient's history and complete physical examination provide good clues to the diagnosis. Simple noninvasive vascular studies and routine blood tests are often helpful to confirm ulcer etiology; biopsy of the ulcer edges may help in elucidating difficult cases. Successful therapy combines local wound management and treatment of the underlying condition.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call