Three types of skin ulcers can affect the lower leg, each named for its underlying cause:
- Venous skin ulcers are the most common, accounting for up to 80% of all leg ulcers. This type of ulcer is caused by poor blood circulation from the legs (venous insufficiency).1
- Arterial skin ulcers account for up to 25% of all leg ulcers and develop when artery disease is present (sometimes in combination with venous disease). These ulcers tend to be extremely painful and are usually on the toes and feet, where poorly functioning arteries are least likely to circulate blood.1
- Neuropathic skin ulcers, also known as diabetic neuropathic ulcers, occur in people who have little or no sensation in their feet due to diabetic nerve damage. These skin ulcers develop at pressure points on the foot, such as on the heel, the great toe, or other spots that rub on footwear. For more information, see the topic Diabetic Neuropathy.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology |
| Last Updated | September 17, 2007 |
Author:Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Last Updated: 09/17/2007
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