Abstract
Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare inflammatory skin condition that causes painful, non-healing ulcers. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be mediated by autoimmune processes, particularly involving dysregulated neutrophils. Over half the cases are associated with other autoimmune conditions, especially inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. The ulcers of pyoderma gangrenosum develop rapidly, often at the site of a minor injury, and are characterized by a distinct purple border. Pyoderma gangrenosum is not infectious and antibiotics play no role in treatment. The mainstays of treatment are topical or systemic corticosteroids and analgesia. Recurrences are possible but may be prevented by controlling any underlying disease and avoiding injuries.
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Reich, D., Psomadakis, C.E., Buka, B. (2017). Pyoderma Gangrenosum. In: Top 50 Dermatology Case Studies for Primary Care. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18627-6_16
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18627-6_16
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