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Pyoderma Gangrenosum

A rare neutrophilic skin disease presenting with rapidly growing, painful, necrotic ulcers.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Pyoderma Gangrenosum?

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis characterized by painful necrotic ulcers that start as small papules or pustules in the skin and rapidly grow, with purple and undermined borders.

It is not infectious; tissue damage occurs due to excessive neutrophil infiltration of the skin. It is often seen together with inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and hematological disorders.

Pathergy phenomenon (development of lesions after minor trauma) is typical; therefore, debridement and surgical interventions are generally not recommended.

Symptoms

Rapidly growing, severely painful ulcers
Purple-violet color change at ulcer edges
Generally located on the lower extremities
Necrotic tissue and purulent discharge within the wound
Appearance of new lesions after minor trauma
Systemic findings such as fever and fatigue
Cribriform (notched) scar after healing

Risk Factors

Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis)
Rheumatoid arthritis and seronegative arthritis
Hematological disorders (myelodysplasia, leukemia)
Monoclonal gammopathies
Trauma and surgical interventions (pathergy)
Female gender and middle age
Some medications (propylthiouracil, GM-CSF)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a rapidly growing, severely painful ulcer develops
  • When ulcer edges turn purple and new lesions form around them
  • If there are wounds unresponsive to antibiotic therapy
  • If fever, fatigue, weight loss accompany
  • When there is suspicion of underlying joint, bowel, or blood disease

Treatment Methods

01
Systemic corticosteroids (first line)
02
Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine, mycophenolate
03
Biologic agents (especially TNF-alpha inhibitors)
04
Moist dressings and pain control for wound care
05
Avoidance of surgical debridement (pathergy risk)
06
Treatment of underlying disease and multidisciplinary approach

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.