Abstract
Pyoderma gangrenosum is an inflammatory condition that is characterized by ulcerations of the skin, but may involve other organs. Classically, pyoderma gangrenosum starts as a small pustule that progresses to the classic ulceration with an overhanging violaceous border. Pathergy, the development of cutaneous involvement at sites of trauma, is common. Pyoderma gangrenosum occurs in association with other diseases in approximately 50% of patients and is most commonly associated with inflammatory bowel disease, myeloproliferative disorders and various arthritides. The diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum is made by excluding other conditions, such as malignancy, infection, vasculitis and trauma. Treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum involves treatment of an associated disease if present, and topical and/or systemic corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive therapies.