A tropical ulcer is a pathology accompanied by inflammation and damage to skin tissues. A similar problem is most common in places with a warm and humid climate, which, in fact, is evidenced by its name.
Tropical ulcer and its causes
Unfortunately, to date, the causes of the appearance of such skin lesions are not fully understood. Nevertheless, it has been proven that a tropical ulcer most often appears on an injured area of the skin, for example, at the site of a scratch or insect bite.
Even the smallest microcracks can become gates for pathogenic microorganisms. Most often, bacteria act as a pathogen.
In addition, the presence of dirt on the surface of the skin and non-compliance with hygiene rules can be attributed to risk factors. Statistics confirm that tropical ulcers are much more often diagnosed in the poor. Of course, in this case, human nutrition is also important, since a deficiency of minerals and vitamins leads to a decrease in immune defense, which, accordingly, contributes to the active reproduction of pathogens.
And the heat and high humidity, characteristic of tropical zones, leads to increased sweating and creates excellent conditions for the development of the disease.
Tropical ulcer: photos and symptoms
Interestingly, in most cases, sores form on the legs - this may be the foot, the lower third of the leg, in a word, those parts of the body that are most likely to be injured. First, a small bladder with bloody fluid appears on the skin. After 1-2 days, it bursts, releasing fetid discharge and exposing a site of necrosis.
And after a few days, necrotic tissues of a greenish-gray color separate, exposing the ulcer itself. The diameter of the lesion most often exceeds five centimeters.
The presence of ulcerated areas, as a rule, does not affect the patient's well-being: fever and weakness are absent. In some cases, the ulcers heal by themselves, forming a reddish scar. But most often, a tropical ulcer requires competent treatment.
The fact is that secondary infection of the wound is not ruled out. In some cases, the necrotic process can spread to muscle and even bone tissue. A tropical ulcer can lead to a host of complications. In particular, gangrene and sepsis are observed in some patients.
Tropical ulcer: how to treat?
Since the ulcerative process is associated with the activity of a bacterial infection, I use antibiotics for treatment. In some cases, it is enough to chop the affected area of the skin with the appropriate drug, but sometimes the therapy is supplemented with intravenous medication.
In addition, the ulceration area must be constantly cleaned with antiseptic agents and covered with clean dressings. Surgical intervention is necessary only in the most severe cases.
As for preventive measures, they come down to good nutrition and compliance with personal hygiene. Every scratch on the skin must be treated immediately with a bactericidal preparation. If the ulcer still appears, you need to go to the doctor as soon as possible.