Arterial ulcers are ulcers caused by an insufficient supply of newly oxygenated blood that leads to slow wound healing and exposes the body to the risk of inflammation in wounds that become chronic rather than resolving. These ulcers are most commonly found on the lower extremities and are especially prevalent on the feet in patients who experience them. There are a number of conditions that can cause arterial ulcers, and people who are at higher risk of developing them may receive special instructions from their doctors so they can learn how to identify such ulcers quickly.
When the arteries are not supplying enough fresh blood, it is difficult for wounds to heal. A small cut or scrape may not resolve, and skin that is damaged due to protruding bone, ill-fitting shoes, or chafing clothing will not heal. Similarly, if the nails are trimmed too short or a nail becomes ingrown, this can also cause a poorly healed injury. Over time, this can develop into an arterial ulcer.
Arterial ulcers are characterized by areas of sunken, boneless tissue that may leak with wound exudate. The surrounding area may be yellow, brown, reddish, gray, or black. Since the ulcer is often inflamed or infected, it may be red, tender, and swollen. Over time, the ulcer can spread. Arterial ulcers are usually very painful. It is possible to have just one ulcer or multiple ulcers.
Causes of arterial ulcers can include chronic arterial insufficiency, diabetes, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Also known as ischemic ulcers, these ulcers are a cause for concern among such patients. They can also appear in apparently healthy patients, since sometimes the signs of arterial obstruction are not evident until the patient begins to develop secondary complications such as ulcers. In patients known to be at risk, prevention includes careful management of the patient's chronic condition, along with the promotion of good circulation.
Management of arterial ulcers requires several approaches. First, the ulcer itself must be addressed. This may include administering antibiotics to fight infection, providing patients with pain relief, and cleaning the wound to remove dead tissue. However, treatment will not necessarily promote healing or prevent a recurrence because the underlying cause is still present. Therefore, measures should also be taken to improve circulation. This may include the use of specialized garments, the prescription of medications, or the performance of surgery, depending on the nature of the condition leading to the development of ulcers.