Question

A patient presents with a small, round, partial-thickness wound on the lateral malleolus with distinct wound edges. Upon examination, the wound bed is a grey color without evidence of granulation tissue and appears to be dry. The wound is extremely tender to palpation and the patient reports calf pain during walking. These findings are MOST associated with which of the following types of ulcers?

1. Venous stasis
2. Neuropathic
3. Arterial
4. Decubitus

Answer 1

A small, round, partial-thickness wound with a grey, dry wound bed and calf pain during walking is most associated with an arterial ulcer, which is caused by poor blood flow and inadequate oxygenation to the tissue.

Step-by-step explanation:

The findings described in the question are most associated with an arterial ulcer. Characteristics such as a small, round wound with distinct edges, a grey wound bed without granulation tissue, dry appearance, tenderness to palpation, and associated calf pain during walking align with the presentation of an arterial ulcer. These ulcers are caused by inadequate blood flow and oxygen to the area, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. The calf pain or claudication is a classic symptom of peripheral arterial disease, which is a common underlying cause of arterial ulcers. Unlike venous stasis ulcers, which tend to be irregular in shape and have a 'wet' appearance due to edema and possible drainage, arterial ulcers have a 'punched out' appearance and are often dry due to the lack of adequate blood supply.