Etiology and Outcomes of Lower Limb Ulcers in Non-Diabetic Patients, An Experience from Government Hospital in Western India

J Assoc Physicians India. 2017 Nov;65(11):47-50.

Abstract

Aim: To study the Etiology and Outcomes of Lower Extremity Ulcer in Non- Diabetic Patients.

Method: A total number of 40 patients were collected from Rheumatology services (Department of Medicine), Venous Clinic (Department of Surgery) and Dermatology Clinic (Department of Dermatology) of a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai over a period of 48 months from January 2013 to December 2016. The study included serial recruitment of lower limb ulcer fulfilling inclusion criteria.

Results: Patients with lower limb ulcers presented with a wide range of pathology. Ulcers due to Vasculitis was the most common etiology (40%) and affected females predominantly (12/16). Venous ulcers were the second most common etiology and predominantly affected men (8/10).

Conclusion: It is important to consider differential diagnosis of Vasculitic ulcer in chronic non healing ulcers as they show rapid response to treatment with immunosuppressant. If such ulcers are not promptly diagnosed and treated properly, systemic vasculitis can cause end organ damage or even endanger patient life.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • India / epidemiology
  • Leg Ulcer* / diagnosis
  • Leg Ulcer* / epidemiology
  • Leg Ulcer* / etiology
  • Leg Ulcer* / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Factors
  • Skin Diseases / complications*
  • Tertiary Care Centers / statistics & numerical data
  • Varicose Veins / complications*
  • Vasculitis* / complications
  • Vasculitis* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents