[Unusual complication of arterial hypertension: Martorell's ulcer]

Eight cases of Martorell's ulcer observed in the last ten years are presented. Discussion of the aetiopathogenesis, and the clinical, anatomo-pathological, physiopathological, and therapeutic aspects of this form leads to the conclusion that it appears in hypertensive subjects, usually women, between the middle and inferior third of the leg, on the anterolateral surface. The limb is free from nervous, venous, and arterial lesions. Ulceration is typical of hypertensive arteriolitis. Drug and local antiseptic management normally gives the best results. In the case of severe lesions, Thiersch grafts can be usefully employed.