Atypical Ulcers: Diagnosis and Management

Clin Interv Aging. 2019 Dec 10:14:2137-2143. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S231896. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Atypical ulcers show atypical clinical features, histology, localization, and resistance to standard therapies. The persistence of a chronic ulcer despite treatment with standard therapies requires a more specific diagnostic investigation. Diagnosis involves obtaining the history and performing clinical examination and additional tests. A skin biopsy is frequently used to confirm unclear diagnosis. In difficult cases, microbiological and immunohistochemical examinations, laboratory blood tests, or instrumental tests should be evaluated. The treatment of atypical wounds is characterized by local systemic therapy and pain control. Our results highlight the need for early diagnosis, and standardized and targeted management by a multidisciplinary wound healing center.

Keywords: atypical ulcers; wound bed preparation; wound healing; wound management.

MeSH terms

  • Bandages
  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Physical Examination
  • Skin / physiopathology
  • Ulcer / diagnosis*
  • Ulcer / physiopathology
  • Ulcer / therapy*
  • Wound Healing*