[Differential diagnosis of leg ulcers]

Over the last years the treatment of chronic leg ulcers has developed from a merely symptomatic to a differentiated therapy. Although more than 90% of the ulcers are of vascular origin, many other causes are possible. A survey of the various triggers of chronic ulcers of the lower limb is given. Vascular, hematological, neuropathic, infectious, malignant and chemico-physical causes are discussed. New findings regarding hemostatic defects as the basis of thrombophilia and ulcers are presented.