Trophic ulcers are a major problem in medicine because their treatment is extremely complex and lengthy. Most often, it is possible to eliminate the main symptoms, but addressing the underlying cause is much more difficult. The biggest issue for all patients with this diagnosis is constant relapses, which negatively affect quality of life and significantly reduce work capacity.
CAUSES OF TROPHIC ULCERS: WHO IS AT RISK?
A trophic ulcer is a long-lasting, non-healing wound located on the lower third of the leg. The defect affects the skin and the soft tissues beneath it. In advanced cases, the necrotic process damages muscles and tendons. These ulcers are called “trophic” due to impaired tissue trophism-in other words, disrupted cellular nutrition. As a result, healing occurs extremely slowly, or irreversible processes develop.
The main causes of the condition include:
- varicose vein disease
- inflammation of the venous wall (thrombophlebitis / phlebothrombosis)
- deep vein thrombosis
Thus, a trophic ulcer is a consequence of venous pathologies, but it is also important to mention additional contributing factors. These include diseases that cause congestion and impaired blood and lymph flow. For example, the arterial system is affected in diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. Ulcers may also occur with vasculitis and other systemic diseases, as well as after injuries.
METHODS OF TREATING TROPHIC ULCERS AND THEIR EFFECTIVENESS
It is impossible to cure a trophic ulcer using methods typically applied to other types of wounds. Such approaches offer temporary relief but do not eliminate the condition.