Caring for patients with leg ulcers and an underlying vasculitic condition

It is not uncommon for nurses in the community to encounter patients with leg ulceration combined with rheumatic disease, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aetiology of the leg ulcers in these cases is rarely straightforward, and the management of the ulcers is correspondingly complex. Management may be further complicated in the presence of vasculitis, an uncommon disorder in which inflammatory changes cause degradation of blood vessels. Rapid deterioration and pain are the main challenges with these cases. This article discusses the aetiology of vaculitic ulcers, and presents two case studies which were successfully managed using a new hydrogel dressing.