pathology
Last reviewed 01/2018
Microscopic examinatio of skin biopsy specimens is important in excluding other causes of skin ulceration.
The histopathological features of pyoderma gangrenosum are non-specific, but the following are consistent with the diagnosis:
- massive neutrophilic infiltration
- haemorrhage
- necrosis of the epidermis
- abscess formation
The following features are against a diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum:
- predominantly vasculitic appearance
- granuloma formation