Types of leg skin ulcers

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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.

References

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Citations
Miller O, Phillips T (2000). Leg ulcers. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 43(1, Part 1): 91–95.

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Author	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
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

Last updated:	September 17, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Terrina Vail

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