Lower extremity ulceration: Differentiating arterial from venous in presentation, diagnosis, and management

Venous and arterial insufficiency are two common etiologies of lower extremity ulceration that present with different risk factors, symptoms, and characteristics. Diagnostic and management principles are based on accurate assessment, which mandates knowledge of the underlying disease processes and the complex interplay of contributing factors. Early diagnosis, initiation of basic management principles, and referral are paramount to improving key patient- and systems-related outcomes. NPs, especially in the primary care setting, are uniquely positioned for early recognition of these diseases, which can have a significant impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life for patients with venous or arterial insufficiency ulcerations.