Pyoderma gangrenosum--a review

Pyoderma gangrenosum in hematologic malignancies: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a devastating neutrophilic dermatosis that may be associated with trauma or systemic diseases. The associations, characteristics, and temporal relationship of PG with hematologic malignancies are not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

We performed a systematic review of PG associated with hematologic malignancies using data from case reports, case series, and retrospective studies.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science from each database's inception to December 12, 2018. Two reviewers independently selected studies and extracted data.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-nine publications met the inclusion criteria (340 cases). Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) was the most commonly reported hematologic malignancy associated with PG, followed by monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and acute myeloid leukemia. The mean age of patients was 56.5 years, with males being more common. There was a predominance of the ulcerative PG subtype and multifocal distributions across all hematologic malignancies. The majority of MDS cases preceded PG, which was reversed for MGUS.

LIMITATIONS

The data were limited by reporting bias because PG subtypes rely on the rendered diagnosis reported. In addition, the classification for hematologic malignancies has evolved since 1978.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PG should be evaluated for hematologic malignancies, with MDS being the most common.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum-Like Lesion in an Older Adult

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare but serious neutrophilic dermatosis characterized by ulcerative lesions with violaceous borders. The disease mainly occurs in young or middle-aged adults. The authors present the case of a 79-year-old female nursing home patient who had an idiopathic PG-like ulcer on her lower extremity. Initial treatment with 3 courses of antibiotics and topical wound care for assumed cellulitis failed to improve the lesion, but the ulcer healed rapidly after a 1-week course of prednisone therapy (15 mg/d). This case provides insights into the challenges that arise in the diagnosis and management of PG in an older patient with extensive comorbidities. It also highlights the importance of considering PG as a diagnosis for older patients with a distinctive inflammatory ulcer that does not respond to antibiotics and topical wound care, since timely treatment with low-dose steroids can lead to quick healing by aborting the underlying autoinflammatory process.

Pyoderma gangrenosum successfully treated with golimumab: Case report and review of the literature

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis frequently related to chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often associated with exacerbation of intestinal disease and/or loss of treatment efficacy. However, in patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes, the diagnosis may be a challenge. Here, we report the case of a 68-year-old man with a history of ulcerative rectocolitis (URC), type II diabetes and arterial hypertension, who had been treated with infliximab and adalimumab in the past. In September 2017, patient developed an erythematous, infiltrated and painful lesion of the third distal part of his left leg, with ulcerative evolution, rapidly worsened despite a broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment had been introducted. A worsening of rectocolitis occurred simultaneously. In agreement with the gastroenterologists, patient started a new biological therapy with golimumab, and oral prednisone with slow tapering of steroid dosage following the improvement of both cutaneous and intestinal symptoms. Dermatologists should be aware about the risk of PG in patient suffering from IBDs, and consider this diagnosis in all patients affected by URC developing rapidly extending ulcerative skin lesion. Moreover, therapeutic choice should take into consideration the effectiveness of golimumab on the inflammatory background, which sustains both intestinal and skin disease in this type of patients.

[A no scarring persistent skin lesion for 3 years pyoderma gangrenosum]

Le pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) est une dermatose neutrophilique non infectieuse rare souvent méconnue. Il se présente généralement par des ulcérations cutanées inflammatoires, très douloureuses et d'évolution rapide. Il est fréquemment retrouvé dans un contexte de néoplasie, de pathologies inflammatoires digestives, rhumatologiques et/ou hématologiques. Son diagnostic est très souvent tardif après de multiples échecs thérapeutiques. Nous rapportons un cas de pyoderma gangrenosum dont le diagnostic n'a pas été criant. Un patient a été admis dans notre service pour une lésion dermatologique persistante et d'évolution défavorable malgré les débridements et l'administration d'antibiotiques. Il était suivi pour un cancer de la prostate, une hypertension artérielle et un asthme. Du fait des anomalies biologiques observées telles qu'une hyperleucocytose à polynucléaires neutrophiles avec myélémie à myélocytes et métamyélocytes, sans blastose sanguine et une anémie normochrome normocytaire, une leucémie myéloïde chronique a été évoquée chez ce patient. Elle a par la suite été infirmée devant les différents examens complémentaires non concluants. C'est ainsi que le diagnostic de PG a été évoqué et confirmé à l'examen anatomopathologique montrant un aspect histopathologique d'un tissu de granulation concordant avec un pyoderma gangrenosum et une absence de signe histologique de malignité. L'institution d'un traitement à base de corticothérapie a abouti à la guérison.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum in the Absence of Any Underlying Predisposing Condition: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare non-infectious skin disease of undetermined origin. It is characterized by a single or multiple painful, necrotic ulcers. Formerly, PG was assumed to be infectious, but eventually, it was established to be an inflammatory disorder that is commonly associated with autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. We report a case of PG in a 70-year-old female who presented on the pretibial area as a single non-healing ulcer. It started as a small induration that worsened over the course of two weeks despite being on antibiotics. We started the patient on corticosteroids and high potency topical steroids that resulted in healing of the ulcer. PG can prove to be a diagnostic dilemma and can be inappropriately treated with antibiotics or even something radical like an amputation if misdiagnosed. Hence, physicians need to think of this entity even in the absence of any predisposing conditions.

Cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes

A variety of cutaneous abnormalities can be seen in patients with malignant diseases, some of which are infectious, with others representing direct involvement of the skin by the underlying disorder. Yet another group of lesions can be regarded as associated markers of the malignant process, and, as such, are termed "paraneoplastic." This review considers the latter collection of conditions, grouping them by the generic type of malignancy that is usually linked to the paraneoplasia. Some of the processes show a predominant association with alimentary tract malignancies (acanthosis nigricans, acrodermatitis paraneoplastica, florid cutaneous papillomatosis, necrolytic migratory erythema, palmoplantar keratoderma, pancreatic fat necrosis, and pityriasis rotunda). Others are usually linked to a hematolymphoid malignancy (acquired ichthyosis, exfoliative erythroderma, necrobiotic xanthogranuloma, pemphigus paraneoplastica, plane xanthoma, pyoderma gangrenosum, scleromyxedema, Sweet syndrome, and leukocytoclastic vasculitis). Finally, yet another collection of paraneoplastic skin disorders can associate themselves with anatomically-diverse malignancies (Leser-Trelat syndrome, Trousseau syndrome, dermatomyositis, erythema gyratum repens, hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita, papuloerythroderma of Ofuji, tripe palms, and multicentric reticulohistiocytosis). Recognition of these processes by the pathologist can be a valuable step in the characterization of underlying malignant diseases.

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp: A neutrophilic folliculitis within the spectrum of neutrophilic dermatoses: A clinicopathologic study of 30 cases

BACKGROUND

It is general opinion that histopathology is nonspecific and of little value in diagnosing erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS).

OBJECTIVES

Clinicopathologic correlation of erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp.

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical and pathologic records of patients with a clinicopathologic diagnosis of EPDS between 2011 and 2016 at the Dermatopathology Unit of Turin University.

RESULTS

Thirty elderly patients with EPDS were identified (22 men and 8 women). Androgenetic alopecia was present in 19 of 30 patients. Triggering factors included mechanical trauma in 10 of 30 cases, surgical procedures in 4 of 30 cases, and herpes zoster in 1 of 30 cases. Three patients were affected by autoimmune disorders. The vertex was the most common location. Disease presentation varied markedly from tiny, erosive, scaly lesions to crusted and hemorrhagic plaques, mimicking pustular pyoderma gangrenosum. The pathologic changes differed according to lesion type and disease duration. Interestingly, a spongiotic and suppurative infundibulo-folliculitis was observed in 8 of 30 cases.

LIMITATIONS

This was a retrospective study.

CONCLUSIONS

We believe that the primary lesion of erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp is a spongiotic, pustular superficial folliculitis. The clinicopathologic similarities with other neutrophilic dermatoses, such as pustular pyoderma gangrenosum, suggest this condition should be included in this spectrum, where pathergy plays a pathogenetic role.

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency-I caused by a novel mutation in ITGB2 presenting with pyoderma gangrenosum

Background: Leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD) syndromes are primary immunodeficiency disorders caused by defects in adhesion molecules on leukocytes resulting in impaired migration into tissues. Common cutaneous manifestations of LAD include bacterial infections, omphalitis with delayed separation of the umbilical cord, impaired pus formation and poor wound healing. LAD is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, making early diagnosis and management integral in the care of these patients.

Methods: Molecular testing and flow cytometry for expression of CD18 were performed on 2 siblings presenting with cutaneous lesions including pyoderma gangrenosum (PG).

Results: We describe 2 siblings with a novel homozygous mutation in ITGB2 (c.2070del, p.Asp690Glufs*25) resulting in an atypical presentation of LAD-I with PG.

Conclusion: LAD should be considered in patients presenting with unexplained PG, even in the absence of significant infections or umbilical cord complications.

Statement of novelty: To the best of our knowledge, we describe a novel homozygous mutation in ITGB2 (c.2070del, p.Asp690Glufs*25) resulting in LAD-I. Patients with LAD-I may present with unexplained PG and may lack classic symptoms including umbilical cord complications.

Improvement of Ulcerations in Treatment-Resistant Chronic Scarring in a Patient with Pyoderma Gangrenosum After Improving Vascular Insufficiency, Gently Removing Necrotic Debris, and Decreasing Wound Fluid

BACKGROUND Classical pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare, inflammatory, neutrophilic dermatosis that commonly presents with severe ulcerations on the lower extremities and is often misdiagnosed and mistreated. Delay in treatments can lead to worsening of the ulcerations and allows for multiple comorbid factors. Pyoderma gangrenosum is most commonly treated with immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory agents and is often worsened by surgical procedures due to the presence of pathergy. In acute cases, a course of anti-inflammatory treatments works well in alleviating symptoms and reducing ulcerations and residual scarring. However, in chronic cases with the presence of severe scarring and necrotic ulcerations, the simple implementation of systemic immunosuppressants is frequently ineffective alone. Although not mentioned in most case reports on pyoderma gangrenosum, the chronicity of its inflammatory component can lead to necrosis and scarring and subsequent vascular insufficiency. CASE REPORT We present a severe case of chronic ulcerative pyoderma gangrenosum in a patient who had treatment-resistant ulcerations and cribriform edematous scarring with subsequent vascular insufficiency of the right lower extremity. This patient, while receiving topical clobetasol, had marked improvement in the healing of his ulcerations only after starting a novel course of cadexomer iodine, compression stockings, and pentoxifylline. CONCLUSIONS The efficacy of non-anti-inflammatory treatments indicates that chronic pyoderma gangrenosum with extensive scarring is commonly associated with the comorbid factors of vascular insufficiency, necrotic debris, and extensive wound fluid. In cases of ulcerations in chronic pyoderma gangrenosum that are resistant to anti-inflammatory treatments alone, one should identify and address other compounding factors that may inhibit wound healing.

Central retinal arterial occlusion in a patient with pyoderma gangrenosum

A 74-year-old male presented to us with a history of vision loss for 36 hours in the right eye (RE). The RE had a visual acuity of hand movements. The fundus revealed a pale retina, cattle tracking in the retinal vessels, and a cherry-red spot at the macula. The patient was a known case of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and had received intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide at the onset of visual symptoms. An emergency anterior chamber paracentesis was performed following unsuccessful attempts of ocular massage. The patient improved to 6/9 in the RE 4 months after paracentesis. The patient had an aggressive course of PG, for which he needed a combination of oral steroid, immunomodulator therapy and biologicals. An association between central retinal arterial occlusion and PG has not been reported before, according to the best of authors’ knowledge.

Dental treatment of a rare case of pyoderma gangrenosum with aggressive periodontal disease

BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophil-mediated autoinflammatory dermatosis that can involve the oral mucosa. Dental surgery is a potential triggering factor for the onset of PG lesions. The authors describe and discuss the dental management of a rare case of aggressive periodontitis in a patient with PG, from multiple tooth extractions to prosthetic rehabilitation, including administration of systemic steroid prophylaxis before surgery to prevent the potential onset of PG-related lesions.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 22-year-old man who had a diagnosis of PG and who had aggressive periodontal disease underwent dental extractions, gingivoplastic surgery, and prosthetic rehabilitation. The patient received 8 milligrams of betamethasone intramuscularly 20 minutes before the oral surgery. The tissues healed perfectly, and no adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

For minor oral surgery, prophylactic corticosteroids might help reduce the risk of developing PG-related lesions. The clinician should plan the prosthetic devices to be as atraumatic as possible.

Effectiveness of systemic treatments for pyoderma gangrenosum: a systematic review of observational studies and clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a neutrophilic dermatosis with substantial morbidity. There is no consensus on gold-standard treatments.

OBJECTIVES

To review the effectiveness of systemic therapy for PG.

METHODS

We searched six databases for 24 systemic therapies for PG. Primary outcomes were complete healing and clinical improvement; secondary outcomes were time to healing and adverse effects.

RESULTS

We found 3326 citations and 375 articles underwent full-text review; 41 studies met the inclusion criteria. There were 704 participants in 26 retrospective cohort studies, three prospective cohort studies, seven case series, one case-control study, two open-label trials and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Systemic corticosteroids were the most studied (32 studies), followed by ciclosporin (21 studies), biologics (16 studies) and oral dapsone (11 studies). One RCT (STOP-GAP, n = 121) showed that prednisolone and ciclosporin were similar: 15-20% of patients showed complete healing at 6 weeks and 47% at 6 months. Another RCT (n = 30) found that infliximab was superior to placebo at 2 weeks (46% vs. 6% response), with a 21% complete healing rate at 6 weeks. Two uncontrolled trials showed 60% and 37% healing within 4 months for canakinumab and infliximab, respectively; other data suggest that patients with concurrent inflammatory bowel disease may benefit from biologics. The remaining studies were poor quality and had small sample sizes but supported the use of corticosteroids, ciclosporin and biologics.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic corticosteroids, ciclosporin, infliximab and canakinumab had the most evidence in treating PG. However, current literature is limited to small and lower-quality studies with substantial heterogeneity.

The PARACELSUS score: a novel diagnostic tool for pyoderma gangrenosum

BACKGROUND

The lack of objective diagnostic criteria renders pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) a diagnosis of exclusion. The diagnostic approaches proposed to date have not been systematically evaluated. Thus, PG remains a challenging and frequently misdiagnosed disorder.

OBJECTIVES

To develop and assess a comprehensive, yet clinically practicable, sensitive diagnostic scoring system for PG.

METHODS

Clinical history and images of a total of 60 participants with previously confirmed PG located on the lower extremity and a control cohort of 50 patients with venous leg ulcers were retrospectively evaluated by expert teams at two tertiary dermatological centres specializing in wound care using a newly developed diagnostic scoring system composed of 10 criteria.

RESULTS

The three major diagnostic criteria are rapidly progressing disease, assessment of relevant differential diagnoses and a reddish-violaceous wound border (prevalent in 98% of patients with PG). Minor criteria (evident in 61-95% of patients with PG) include amelioration by immunosuppressant drugs, characteristically irregular shape of ulceration, extreme pain > 4/10 on a visual analogue scale and localization of lesion at the site of the trauma. Three additional criteria (observed in up to 60% of patients with PG) encompass suppurative inflammation in histopathology, undermined wound borders and systemic disease associated. A total score value of 10 points or higher indicates a high likelihood of PG and differentiates PG from venous leg ulcers. The initial letters of the above-listed criteria form the acronym PARACELSUS.

CONCLUSIONS

The PARACELSUS score represents a novel, easily implementable, effective and sensitive diagnostic tool for PG.

Pyoderma gangrenosum-like ulcerations in granulomatosis with polyangiitis: two cases and literature review

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a systemic necrotizing small vessel vasculitis associated with circulating anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs). Skin manifestations, mostly represented by palpable purpura, papulonodular lesions and livedo reticularis, are present in up to 50% of the cases. Ulcerations with undermined, raised erythematous-violaceous border resembling pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) have rarely been reported as skin involvement in GPA. The presence of circulating ANCAs with a cytoplasmic labelling pattern, the involvement of internal organs, particularly of the lung, and the absence on histology of a mainly neutrophilic infiltrate in early phases of the cutaneous lesions may be regarded as clues to rule out true PG and confirm the diagnosis of GPA skin ulcerations simulating PG. Herein, we describe two paradigmatic cases of such a unique presentation of GPA and a literature review focusing on clinicopathological features of GPA presenting with PG-like ulcerations in the skin has been provided. Moreover, referring to the scenario observed in these two cases, an easy-to-use working approach for the differential diagnosis between the two conditions has also been proposed.

Pyoderma gangrenosum in primary care setting: the challenges involved

This article aims at raising clinical awareness about pyoderma gangrenosum especially when presenting in primary care settings. Due to its initial manifestation as a nonspecific ulcer, physicians with relatively less dermatology experience usually misdiagnose PG as cutaneous infection or vascular disease. This usually leads to inappropriate treatment with subsequent worsening of condition and devastating effects on patients' lives.

Pyoderma gangrenosum after breast surgery: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Post-surgical pyoderma gangrenosum (PSPG) is a rare inflammatory skin disorder of unknown aetiology. Given its similar presentation to wound infection and lack of reliable diagnostic tests as well as pathognomonic clinical features, PSPG is difficult to diagnose. The aim of this review was to identify factors contributing to PSPG to aid with timely diagnosis and appropriate therapy.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed by following PRISMA guidelines, focusing on PSPG after reconstructive and aesthetic breast surgery. The online databases PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane were used, and additionally, a Google^© search was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 68 articles describing 87 cases of PSPG following aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery were found. The majority of PSPG (44%) occurred after breast reduction surgery and microsurgical breast reconstruction (16%). The most common associated conditions were malignancies in 37% and autoimmune deficiencies in 17%. Microbiological examinations were found to have a negative result in 90%. The median time from initial presentation with symptoms to correct diagnosis of PG was on average 12.5 days, with unsuccessful first-line therapy on average for 20.0 days. After the diagnosis of PG, medical therapy most commonly involved steroids in 84% and/or Cyclosporine A in 22% of the cases. On average, the duration of this therapy was 4.7 months.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of PSPG remains a challenging issue. However, according to the presented review, several distinct clinical signs in combination with lack of treatment response should prompt further investigation to promote timely diagnosis and correct treatment of this potentially debilitating disease.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum Secondary to Severe Congenital Neutropenia

We encountered a case of a man who was diagnosed with severe congenital neutropenia as a child and presented at the age of 45 years with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) of the lower leg. PG associates with an underlying systemic disease, most commonly inflammatory bowel, rheumatic, or hematological disease or malignancy. However, in many cases, the underlying disease was not known. Surgery can trigger PG. The histopathological features of PG were nonspecific, and diagnosis requires excluding other conditions that have a similar appearance. Our analyses showed that the PG in our case was secondary to severe congenital neutropenia, which had promoted an infection of keratinous cysts. The patient bore a mutation in the ELANE gene encoding neutrophil elastase. Only 1 other case of neutropenia-associated PG has been reported previously: the association was only suspected. The present complex case was effectively treated by systemic treatment of the neutropenia with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and regional surgical treatment. Histology of the excised tissue revealed keratinous cysts that were diffusely distributed with inflammatory granulation tissue. We believe that the rupture of the walls of the keratinous cysts may have caused the PG. At the time of writing (3 years since the initial presentation), the PG has not recurred. This case shows the importance of performing detailed examinations, including blood tests, to determine the disease underlying PG. This was because if the underlying disease was identified, its treatment was likely to promote healing of the wound after local surgery and prevent recurrence.

A rare case of adult scalp pyoderma gangrenosum with cranial osteolysis

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare and painful idiopathic skin condition that has one or more areas of chronic ulceration with well demarcated and undermined borders. Bone osteolysis (the pathological destruction of bone tissue) secondary to PG is a rare phenomenon with limited cases reported in children only. This is the first case report of scalp PG with cranial osteolysis in an 80-year-old adult, with an initial presentation mimicking skin carcinoma. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting discussion, diagnosis of PG by exclusion and the successful treatment of this patient's PG eroding to the bone.

Trizentrische Analyse von Kofaktoren und Komorbidität des Pyoderma gangraenosum

EINLEITUNG

Das Pyoderma gangraenosum (PG) ist eine seltene, inflammatorische destruktiv-ulzerierende neutrophile Erkrankung mit weitgehend unklarer Pathophysiologie.

MATERIAL UND METHODIK

In dieser Studie wurden die potenziell relevanten Kofaktoren und Begleiterkrankungen von Patienten mit PG aus drei dermatologischen Wundzentren in Deutschland differenziert ausgewertet.

ERGEBNISSE

Von den insgesamt 121 analysierten Patienten waren Frauen (66,9 %) häufiger betroffen als Männer. Das Alter der Patienten war 18-96 Jahre (Mittelwert [MW]: 59,8); die Wunden hatten eine Größe von 1-600 cm² (MW: 65,6 cm²) und waren überwiegend sehr schmerzhaft (VAS 1-10, MW: 7). Die Unterschenkel waren am häufigsten (71,9 %) betroffen. Bei 12 (9,9 %) Patienten bestanden chronisch entzündliche Darmerkrankungen (5,8 % Colitis ulcerosa; 4,1 % Morbus Crohn), bei 14,1 % der Patienten wurde eine Begleiterkrankung aus dem rheumatischen Formenkreis beschrieben. Neoplasien bestanden bei 20,6 % der Patienten, von denen 6,6 % als hämatologische und 14,1 % als solide Neoplasien klassifiziert wurden. Aus dem Kreis des metabolischen Syndroms wurde bei 69,4 % Patienten eine Adipositas, bei 57,9 % eine arterielle Hypertonie und bei 33,9 % ein Diabetes mellitus diagnostiziert.

SCHLUSSFOLGERUNGEN

Diese Datenanalyse bestätigt Assoziationen des PG mit dem metabolischen Syndrom und mit Neoplasien, die zukünftig frühzeitig bei einer zielgerichteten Diagnostik der Patienten beachtet und behandelt werden sollten.

Tricenter analysis of cofactors and comorbidity in patients with pyoderma gangrenosum

INTRODUCTION

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic, ulcerative skin disease of largely unknown pathophysiology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, potentially relevant cofactors and comorbidities in patients with PG from three dermatological wound care centers in Germany were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 121 patients assessed, women (66.9 %) were more frequently affected than men. Patient age ranged from 18 to 96 years (mean 59.8). Wound size varied from 1-600 cm² (mean 65.6 cm²), and the pain intensity was predominantly very high (VAS 1-10, mean 7). The lower legs were most commonly (71.9 %) affected. Overall, 12 (9.9 %) patients had inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, 5.8 %; Crohn's disease, 4.1 %), 14.1 % exhibited rheumatic comorbidities. Neoplasms were found in 20.6 % of patients, with 6.6 % classified as hematological and 14.0 % as solid neoplasms. With respect to criteria for the metabolic syndrome, obesity was found in 69.4 %, arterial hypertension in 57.9 %, and diabetes mellitus in 33.9 % of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The present data analysis confirms the association of PG with metabolic syndrome and neoplasms. In the future, these aspects should be included in the targeted diagnostic workup of patients with PG and subsequently treated in a timely fashion.

Drug-Induced Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A Review

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis that may be caused by an adverse drug reaction. We discuss the clinical presentation and outcomes of 52 cases of drug-induced PG reported to date in the literature. We conducted our literature search for case reports of drug-induced PG using keywords on PubMed and Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms on MEDLINE and EMBASE. To assess the probability that each case of PG was related to drug therapy, we used the Naranjo criteria. We identified 44 studies in the literature, with a total of 52 cases of drug-induced PG. The mean Naranjo score for cocaine-induced PG (n = 13) was 9.4, indicating a definite adverse drug reaction, while the mean Naranjo scores for isotretinoin (n = 5), propylthiouracil (n = 5), and sunitinib (n = 5) were 6.2, 6.8, and 7.4, respectively, indicating probable adverse drug reactions. Drugs should be considered as a possible triggering event whenever PG is diagnosed, and clinicians should particularly consider this in patients taking isotretinoin, propylthiouracil, or sunitinib, as well as in patients with a history of cocaine use.

Pyoderma gangrenosum after orthopaedic or traumatologic surgery: a systematic revue of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a neutrophilic dermatosis characterised by a painful ulceration mimicking infection of the operative site. To this day, there is still no general agreement on the medical and surgical treatment of PG. This systematic review of the literature aims to summarise recent studies about post-operative PG in orthopaedic surgery to improve its medical and surgical management.

METHOD

In April 2017, we carried out an exhaustive review of the literature in MEDLINE, PubMed and Cochrane databases. Key words were pyoderma gangrenosum, orthopaedic surgery, and surgical wound infection. We identified 183 articles. After excluding articles reporting idiopathic PG, cases secondary to non-orthopaedic surgery, and cases about other subtypes of dermatosis, 30 studies were identified. We only included articles reporting PG after orthopaedic or trauma surgery.

RESULTS

Thirty-one cases of PG have been reported, 58% (18) of which were in women, whose mean age was 56.5 years. Clinical signs were constant, the most frequently affected site was lower limbs [77.4% (24)] and delay of symptom onset was two to 17 days. Systemic corticosteroid therapy was systematic, polyvalent immunoglobulins were used in two cases and immunosuppressive drugs in one. Negative pressure therapy was used in seven cases and hyperbaric oxygen in three.

DISCUSSION

Delayed diagnosis leads to one or more surgical revisions, which could have been avoided by using early and adapted medical treatment. Early onset of a painful and infected ulcer at the operating site in a patient at risk of PG is an indicator that dermatologist advice is recommended before surgical debridement. Surgical revision, outside the inflammatory phase and/or covered by a systemic corticosteroid therapy, does not lead to PG relapse.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV: Systematic revue of the literature.

Pyoderma Vegetans – a Case Report

Pyoderma vegetans (PV) or blastomycosis-like pyoderma (BLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease, by some authors considered a rare variety of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), and others describe it as a distinct entity. It commonly presents with verrucous plaques with multiple pustules. The etiology of this disease is unknown, but it has been connected with staphylococcal and streptococcal infections, inflammatory bowel disease, hematological diseases, primary immunodeficiency, alcoholism, and nutritional deficit. Here we present a 66-year-old, otherwise healthy female, with a 2-year-long history of well-defined, vegetative livid plaques with multiple pustules on the dorsal side of both hands. Histopathological analysis of the skin biopsy of the hand showed chronic inflammation and micro-abscesses, ruptured follicular cysts and follicular pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia. Treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs and antibiotics showed to be ineffective, as well as the treatment with systemic corticosteroids, dapsone and cyclosporine. Itraconazole was given for its immunomodulatory effects and findings of Penicillium species in one of the swabs, which led to partial regression of lesions. Since the treatment did not lead to complete resolution, acitretin was indicated 3 months later, but the patient was lost to follow-up.

Non-response to Interleukin-1 Antagonist Canakinumab in Two Patients with Refractory Pyoderma Gangrenosum and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Pyoderma gangrenosum and hidradenitis suppurativa are skin conditions characterized by an intense neutrophil-mediated inflammatory response that is often difficult to effectively treat. Successful use of interleukin (IL)-1β inhibition using canakinumab and anakinra has been reported in patients with concomitant pyoderma gangrenosum and hidradenitis suppurativa. We report two cases where targeted therapy with canakinumab failed to lead to improvement for patients with pyoderma gangrenosum and hidradenitis suppurativa. The reason behind the non-response to IL-1β blockade seen in these patients is unclear. Our report suggests that further controlled studies are warranted to help clinicians predict treatment responses to anti-IL-1 therapies in these challenging patients.

Postoperative Pyoderma Gangrenosum in Children: The Case Report of a 13-Year-Old Boy With Pyoderma Gangrenosum After Hip Reconstruction Surgery and a Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a neutrophilic dermatosis and pathergic reaction at surgical sites. Reports of children with postoperative PG are rare in the literature.

METHODS

We report the case of a 13-year-old boy without any known preexisting illnesses, who developed severe systemic response and wound deterioration after elective hip reconstruction surgery. The working diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis was later determined to be postoperative PG.

RESULTS

The patient was successfully treated by the systemic application of corticosteroids.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative PG is a very rare complication after surgery, especially in children. If mistaken for necrotizing fasciitis, it can substantially mutilate a patient because PG is worsened by surgical debridement. It can be treated successfully only by corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-this is a case report.

Pyoderma gangrenosum in a patient with chronic granulomatous disease: A case report

RATIONALE

The simultaneous occurrence of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is uncommon and few cases have been reported worldwide.

PATIENT CONCERNS

PG is a rare, chronic, ulcerative, neutrophilic skin disease of unknown etiology that requires immunosuppressive treatment. CGD belongs to Primary Immune Deficiencies in which the main defect lies in an inability of the phagocytic cells to generate superoxide making patients susceptible to serious, potentially life-threatening bacterial and fungal infections.

DIAGNOSES

In this manuscript, we present a case of ulcerative pyoderma gangrenosum in a 28-year-old man with recent diagnosis of chronic granulomatous disease during hospitalization for resistant pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with Aspergillus infection.

INTERVENTIONS

Second-line therapy with dapsone and intravenous immunoglobulin was initially administered but eventually corticosteroids were added to treatment because of disease progression and further ulceration.

OUTCOMES

Patient's ulcers were gradually healed with no side effects.

LESSONS

Corticosteroids could be used under close monitoring for the treatment of PG in a patient with CGD, despite the increased risk for infections.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum: An Update on Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare inflammatory neutrophilic disorder with prototypical clinical presentations. Its pathophysiology is complex and not fully explained. Recent information regarding the genetic basis of PG and the role of auto-inflammation provides a better understanding of the disease and new therapeutic targets. PG equally affects patients of both sexes and of any age. Uncontrolled cutaneous neutrophilic inflammation is the cornerstone in a genetically predisposed individual. Multimodality management is often required to reduce inflammation, optimize wound healing, and treat underlying disease. A gold standard for the management of PG does not exist and high-level evidence is limited. Multiple factors must be taken into account when deciding on the optimum treatment for individual patients: location, number and size of lesion/ulceration(s), extracutaneous involvement, presence of associated disease, cost, and side effects of treatment, as well as patient comorbidities and preferences. Refractory and rapidly progressive cases require early initiation of systemic therapy. Newer targeted therapies represent a promising pathway for the management of PG, and the main focus of this review is the management and evidence supporting the role of new targeted therapies in PG.

Acute Cutaneous Necrosis: A Guide to Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Acute cutaneous necrosis is characterised by a wide range of aetiologies and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, warranting complex considerations in management. Early recognition is imperative in diagnosis and management of sudden gangrenous changes in the skin. This review discusses major causes of cutaneous necrosis, examines the need for early assessment, and integrates techniques related to diagnosis and management. The literature, available via PubMed, on acute cutaneous necrotic syndromes was reviewed to summarise causes and synthesise appropriate treatment strategies to create a clinician’s guide in the early diagnosis and management of acute cutaneous necrosis. Highlighted in this article are key features associated with common causes of acute cutaneous necrosis: warfarin-induced skin necrosis, heparin-induced skin necrosis, calciphylaxis, pyoderma gangrenosum, embolic phenomena, purpura fulminans, brown recluse spider bite, necrotising fasciitis, ecthyma gangrenosum, antiphospholipid syndrome, hypergammaglobulinemia, and cryoglobulinemia. This review serves to increase recognition of these serious pathologies and complications, allowing for prompt diagnosis and swift limb- or life-saving management.

Pediatric pyoderma gangrenosum: a systematic review and update

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a sterile neutrophilic disorder that rarely affects children. Clinical, epidemiological, and therapeutic data on pediatric PG is poor as there are many newly reported associated diseases and drugs. This paper aims to review all recent available data on pediatric PG. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases. A total of 132 articles were included in the review. The most commonly reported underlying diseases in pediatric PG are inflammatory bowel diseases followed by hematologic disorders, vasculitis, immune deficiencies and Pyogenic Arthritis, Pyoderma gangrenosum and Acne (PAPA) syndrome. More than half of the cases occur with no underlying disease. The most frequently reported clinical presentation is multiple disseminated ulcers. Treatment should be tailored according to the underlying etiology. It includes systemic steroids, corticosteroid sparing agents such as dapsone and cyclosporine, and TNF-alpha inhibitors such as adalimumab and infliximab. Response to treatment is high with cure rates reaching 90%. A high index of suspicion and a thorough workup are mandatory in the management of pediatric PG.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum of the breast: A case report study

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Pyoderma gangrenosum of the breast as a de novo presentation is rare and mostly associated with underlying autoimmune or hematologic disorders.

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It is also associated with breast cosmetic surgery or previous cesarian section.

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In this study, we report a case of pyoderma gangrenosum of the breast in a patient with no prior medical history and no surgeries.

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Treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum of the breast consists of systematic corticosterod use, while surgical debridement has a beneficiary effect.

Introduction

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) of the breast is a rare and rapidly spreading disease, which usually co-exists with severe underlying systemic conditions. PG often presents secondary to breast surgery with skin lesions and signs of infection, even though it is a non-infectious, necrotizing dermatological entity.

Presentation of case

We present a case of de novo unilateral breast PG in 37-year-old woman, with a clear medical history whatsoever. The patient was treated with corticosteroids and, in a two-month follow up, presents with nearly no signs of PG.

Discussion

PG of the breast presents with atypical clinical signs and is characterized by an exclusion-based diagnosis. It often mimics inflammation but is resistant to antibiotics.

Conclusion

The optimal treatment for PG is systemic use of corticosteroids and surgical debridement of the necrotic tissue, while the timely onset of the therapeutic approach is of outmost importance.

Pyoderma gangrenosum following complex reconstruction of a large-scale lower limb defect by combined Parascapular and latissimus dorsi flap

A female patient with a critical soft tissue defect after elective knee replacement surgery was transferred to our department for reconstruction. As wounds were rapidly progressing, necrotizing fasciitis was initially suspected but eventually ruled out by histopathological analysis. A 50 × 15 cm defect was then reconstructed by means of a combined Parascapular and latissimus dorsi flap before, a couple days later, the patient developed tender pustules and ulcers involving the flap as well as the donor site. Attempts of excising necrotic areas not only continued to fail but seemed to worsen the patient's wound and overall condition. Eventually, pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) was diagnosed and local and systemic therapy was initiated but treatment proved to be challenging and insufficient at first. Being an extremely aggressive disease, early diagnosis is crucial and PG should always be suspected when rapidly progressive ulceration on surgical sites is observed.

Bullous Pyoderma Gangrenosum With Subungual Involvement Associated With Ulcerative Colitis

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare inflammatory and ulcerative skin disease of unknown etiology characterized by neutrophilic infiltration of the dermis, mainly affecting the lower extremities. Bullous PG is a rare variant of this disease, usually associated with hematologic disorders. Here, we report a case of pathergy-positive bullous PG with subungual involvement associated with ulcerative colitis.

Aetiology, comorbidities and cofactors of chronic leg ulcers: retrospective evaluation of 1 000 patients from 10 specialised dermatological wound care centers in Germany

Numerous comorbidities and cofactors have been known to influence wound healing processes. In this multicentre study, clinical data of 1 000 patients with chronic leg ulcers from ten specialised dermatological wound care centers were analysed. The patient cohort comprised 567 females and 433 males with an average age of 69·9 years. The wounds persisted on average for 40·8 months and had a mean size of 43·7 cm(2) . Venous leg ulcers represented the most common entity accounting for 51·3% of all chronic wounds, followed by mixed-type ulcers in 12·9% and arterial ulcerations in 11·0% of the patients. Vasculitis was diagnosed in 4·5%, trauma in 3·2%, pyoderma gangrenosum in 2·8%, lymphoedema in 1·7%, neoplasia in 1·0% and delayed post-surgical wound healing in 0·6% of the included patients. In total, 70·5% of patients suffered from arterial hypertension, 45·2% were obese, 27·2% had non-insulin dependent diabetes, and 24·4% dyslipidaemia. Altogether 18·4% suffered from metabolic syndrome. Cofactors and comorbidities of patients with chronic leg ulcers have previously been studied but not in detail. Here, we were able to demonstrate the existence of several potentially relevant cofactors, comorbidities of their associations and geographical distributions, which should be routinely examined in patients with chronic leg ulcers and - if possible - treated.

Management of Pain Associated with Selected Conditions in Dermatology

Dermatologists face a wide range of pain control challenges in daily practice, from the transient pain of dermatologic surgery to the persistent pain that plagues some chronic dermatologic conditions. Although the pathophysiology of pain is well described and the profound impact of dermatological pain on patients' quality of life is well appreciated, there is an identified need for clear therapeutic plans for providing symptomatic pain relief of common painful dermatoses. In this paper, we will review and clearly outline approaches to pain management of a number of common painful dermatoses such as herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia, ulcers, oral dermatoses, dysesthesias, and many others.

The Role of Interleukin-1 in Inflammatory and Malignant Human Skin Diseases and the Rationale for Targeting Interleukin-1 Alpha

Inflammation plays a major role in the induction and progression of several skin diseases. Overexpression of the major epidermal proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL) 1 alpha (IL-1α) and 1 beta (IL-1β) is positively correlated with symptom exacerbation and disease progression in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, neutrophilic dermatoses, skin phototoxicity, and skin cancer. IL-1β and the interleukin-1 receptor I (IL-1RI) have been used as a therapeutic target for some autoinflammatory skin diseases; yet, their system-wide effects limit their clinical usage. Based on the local effects of extracellular IL-1α and its precursor, pro-IL-1α, we hypothesize that this isoform is a promising drug target for the treatment and prevention of many skin diseases. This review provides an overview on IL-1α and IL-β functions, and their contribution to inflammatory and malignant skin diseases. We also discuss the current treatment regimens, and ongoing clinical trials, demonstrating the potential of targeting IL-1α, and not IL-1β, as a more effective strategy to prevent or treat the onset and progression of various skin diseases.