The epidemiology and classification of chronic cutaneous ulcers in Tertiary Health Institutions in Makurdi, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Chronic ulcers usually involve the lower limbs and have a negative impact on life in terms of lowered body image, increased healthcare costs and complication. The study was done to determine the epidemiology, aetiology of ulcers and their classification
Methods: This was a five year retrospective study of all patients with chronic ulcers consecutively seen and managed in the plastic, general surgical clinics and wards that were analyzed at the two tertiary institutions in Benue State comprising Federal Medical Centre and Benue State University Teaching Hospital Makurdi.
Results: One hundred and forty patients with cutaneous ulcers were studied.. The age group 41-50 years was mostly affected with chronic ulcers (30%). Both males and females were equally affected. The lower limb was the most frequently affected anatomical site for ulcers (90%). The commonest aetiology of the chronic ulcers was diabetic foot disease (62.9%).
Conclusion:Cutaneous ulcers affect persons of all age groups and sexes with diabetic foot disease being the commonest cause. Adequate care for persons with diabetes mellitus may limit the burden of cutaneous ulcers.

Key words: Diabetes, epidemiology, Cutaneous Ulcers, Leg Ulcers