A Clinico-Etiopathological Study Of Leg Ulcers At Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Background: A leg ulcer is a disruption in the epithelial integrity of the skin, typically located
between the knee and malleoli, characterized by partial or complete loss of the epidermis and dermis,
occasionally extending into the subcutaneous adipose tissue. The incidence of leg ulceration is increasing,
due to risk factors such as advancing age and increasing prevalence of risk factors like smoking, obesity,
hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Without timely intervention, these ulcers may recur and precipitate
severe complications, imposing substantial economic burdens on patients. Material And Methods: In this
observational study, 32 patients with leg ulcer attending the dermatology OPD at P.D.U. medical college,
Rajkot, Gujarat were enrolled after obtaining their consent. Detailed history of each patient was recorded.
Routine investigations and biopsy were done to detect associated risk factors and histopathological
correlation. Result: Among the 32 patients,21 (65.62%) were male and 11 (34.38%) were female,
predominantly in the age group of >50 years , trophic ulcers(31.25%) was predominant followed by by
pyoderma gangrenosum (25%), venous ulcers (18.75%), vasculitic ulcers (15.62%), diabetic ulcers (6.25%),
and malignancy-related ulcers (3.12%). History of sensory neuropathy due to leprosy (33.33%), obesity
(21.88%), hypertension (18.75%), diabetes (18.75%), and malignancy (3.12%) were the common risk factors
in leg ulcer patients. Conclusion: Due to the complex nature of these ulcers, a thorough diagnostic
approach and adherence to treatment plans are essential for successful management. [Kyada N Natl J
Integr Res Med, 2024; 15(1): 36-41, Published on Dated: 26/01/2024]