Pyoderma gangrenosum

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a chronic ulcerative skin disease with striking clinical features that may rarely involve internal organs, particularly the lung, liver, and spleen. Approximately 50% of PG patients have associated inflammatory, immune dysfunction, or neoplastic diseases. The various topical, systemic, and surgical treatment options for PG are reviewed here. Systemic corticosteroids plus immunosuppressive therapy are often required to successfully manage severe cases of PG. Practical treatment strategies are discussed along with their proper monitoring and potential adverse effects. Current treatment methods are empiric, and the optimum treatment regimen for this disorder requires future controlled clinical trials.