Atypical Pyoderma Gangrenosum in the Setting of Venous and Arterial Insufficiency

Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2023 Jun;22(2):418-422. doi: 10.1177/15347346211002334. Epub 2021 Apr 29.

Abstract

Ulcers of mixed etiology are diagnostically elusive and challenging to treat, especially when rare conditions are superimposed. Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is an autoinflammatory, ulcerative skin disease that is difficult to diagnose. Diagnostic criteria exist but there are no specific clinical tests to identify it. We discuss a case of PG initially diagnosed as venous ulcer in the setting of peripheral artery disease, complicated by superinfection, refractory to standard wound care, multiple surgical debridements, revascularization, negative pressure therapy, and parenteral antibiotics. Findings differentiating PG from other wound etiologies are explored, with the aim of improving clinical recognition of this condition.

Keywords: arterial insufficiency; pyoderma gangrenosum; venous leg ulcer; wound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Peripheral Vascular Diseases* / complications
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / diagnosis
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / etiology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / therapy
  • Skin
  • Varicose Ulcer*