Does pyoderma gangrenosum cause skin ulcer?

Pyoderma gangrenosum is an inflammatory skin condition. The ulcer may begin as a small bump, blister, or irritated area and then break down. Pain can be stronger than the visible change suggests. The border may look dusky or purple, and nearby skin can become inflamed. Several other problems can also cause ulcers, including infection, pressure, circulation problems, and injury, so appearance alone cannot establish the cause.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a new, painful, or enlarging ulcer. Keep the area covered with a clean, non-stick dressing, avoid picking or scrubbing it, and protect surrounding skin from friction. Tell the clinician about inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, blood disorders, recent injury, and medicines, because these details can affect the assessment. Treatment may focus on calming inflammation and supporting wound healing; procedures that injure the edge can sometimes worsen this condition.

Seek urgent medical attention if the ulcer is rapidly expanding, pain is severe or suddenly worse, the skin becomes hot and swollen, or you develop fever, weakness, confusion, or red streaks. Prompt review is also appropriate when bleeding will not stop with gentle pressure, the wound exposes deeper tissue, or you cannot keep fluids down. Do not wait for a wound to become large before arranging an assessment.

Could this ulcer be pyoderma gangrenosum or another cause? Should infection, circulation, or an inflammatory condition be checked? Which dressing is least irritating? What symptoms should make me contact the clinic sooner?