Martorell's ulcer

Martorell's ulcer
Synonyms	Hypertensive ischemic leg ulcer
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology, Vascular medicine
Symptoms	Painful ulcer on the lower leg
Complications	Infection, chronic pain
Onset	Typically in middle-aged to older adults
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Hypertension, arteriolosclerosis
Risks	Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Venous ulcer, arterial ulcer, pyoderma gangrenosum
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Blood pressure management, pain management, wound care
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on underlying conditions
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Martorell's ulcer is a rare, painful type of skin ulcer that typically occurs on the lower legs of individuals with high blood pressure. It is named after the Spanish dermatologist Fernando Martorell Otzet, who first described the condition in 1945.

Causes

The exact cause of Martorell's ulcer is not known, but it is believed to be related to hypertension (high blood pressure). The high pressure in the arteries can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the skin, leading to the formation of an ulcer. Other factors that may contribute to the development of Martorell's ulcer include diabetes, obesity, and smoking.

Symptoms

The main symptom of Martorell's ulcer is a painful, open sore on the lower leg. The ulcer is typically located on the outer side of the leg, just above the ankle. The skin around the ulcer may be red, swollen, and warm to the touch. Other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, and weight loss.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Martorell's ulcer is usually based on the patient's medical history and a physical examination. The doctor may also order tests such as a biopsy of the ulcer, a blood test to check for signs of infection, and an ultrasound to examine the blood flow in the affected area.

Treatment

The treatment of Martorell's ulcer involves managing the underlying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, and providing wound care to promote healing of the ulcer. This may include antibiotics to treat any infection, pain medication to relieve pain, and compression therapy to reduce swelling. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove dead tissue and improve blood flow.

Prognosis

With proper treatment, most people with Martorell's ulcer can expect to see improvement in their symptoms. However, the condition can be difficult to treat and may recur in some individuals. Long-term management of underlying conditions is crucial to prevent recurrence.

See also

• Skin ulcer
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking