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What Is the Significance of Irregular Borders on a Leg Ulcer?

Leg ulcer is a general term used to described several different forms of recurrent or nonhealing sores or wounds that appear on the legs. Irregular ulcer borders indicate the presence of a condition called venous stasis ulcer.

  1. The Facts

    • Venous stasis ulcers typically result from pressure increases in the veins caused by reduced blood flow and blood pooling, according to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging. As a rule, they occur below the knee, with most cases forming above the ankle on the inside of the leg.

    Irregular Ulcer Borders

    • Typically, venous stasis ulcers have irregular borders accompanied by discolored or swollen nearby skin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The skin may also feel warm to the touch or have a shiny or tight appearance.

    Additional Signs

    • Additional potential signs of a venous stasis ulcer include green or yellow discharge, significant fluid drainage and yellow, fibrous tissue covering the ulcer, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

    Causes

    • The Merck Manual of Health and Aging cites potential causes of venous ulcers that include varicose veins, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), heart failure and any other syndrome that triggers abnormal blood pooling.

    Significance

    • Some venous ulcers heal with or without treatment, while others never heal, according to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging.

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