types of ulcer

Last reviewed 01/2018

Ulcers can be divided into arbitrary groups on the basis of clinical presentation and aetiology:

  • peptic ulcer
  • ischaemic ulcers e.g. decubitus ulcers
  • gravitational ulcer
  • infective ulcers:
    • primary e.g. viral, tuberculosis, spirochaetal
    • secondary e.g. due to drainage of deep focus
  • traumatic ulcer including secondary stress ulcers
  • neuropathic ulcer e.g. in diabetes
  • malignant ulcers:
    • skin
    • gastrointestinal tract
  • ulcers secondary to systemic disease e.g. pyoderma gangrenosum, ulcerative colitis
  • ulcers secondary to dermatological disease
  • aphthous ulcers
  • iatrogenic ulcers:
    • wound breakdown post-operatively
    • irritant fluid extravasating
  • ulcers artefacta