Pyoderma gangrenosum: signpost of underlying disease.
Pyoderma gangrenosum lesions often arise as small pustules that rapidly expand into large, deep ulcers. Generally, this skin disorder is identified on the basis of its characteristic appearance; there are no tests or pathognomonic histopathologic features that routinely confirm the diagnosis. The go...
| Published in: | Consultant (00107069) Vol. 42; no. 4; pp. 457 - 460 |
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| Main Author: | |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Published: |
HMP Global
2002 Apr 1
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| Online Access: | View this record in EBSCOhost |
| Summary: | Pyoderma gangrenosum lesions often arise as small pustules that rapidly expand into large, deep ulcers. Generally, this skin disorder is identified on the basis of its characteristic appearance; there are no tests or pathognomonic histopathologic features that routinely confirm the diagnosis. The goal of laboratory testing is to exclude other disorders or to identify underlying diseases. Treatment can be difficult; it may take many months for the lesions to resolve. Dressings, compresses, rest, and washing with hydrogen peroxide promote reepithelialization. Topical or intralesional corticosteroids are most helpful for patients with early disease. Systemic corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy; other options include immunosuppressive and antileprosy drugs. |
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