Demographic and Clinical Insights Into Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study From a Tertiary...

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, non-infectious inflammatory skin disease often associated with systemic disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), malignancies, and autoimmune conditions. This study aimed to investigate the demographic characteristics, comorbidities, differential diagnoses, and treatment outcomes in patients with histopathologically confirmed PG at a tertiary referral hospital in Iran.

This retrospective cross-sectional study included 58 patients diagnosed with PG at Rasool Akram Hospital between 2018 and 2023. Data were extracted from medical records and follow-up phone interviews. Variables included demographic information, smoking status, pathergy test results, underlying diseases, treatment regimens, and patient-reported satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Among the 58 patients, 53.4% were female, and the mean age was 55.88 ± 13.83 years. Underlying conditions were present in 46.6% of patients, most commonly IBD (29.3%), malignancy (15.5%), and rheumatoid arthritis (10.3%). The most prescribed medications were prednisolone (96.6%), methotrexate (51.7%), and cyclosporine (39.7%). Patient satisfaction was highest for etanercept (100%), infliximab (83.3%), and methotrexate (60.0%). No statistically significant associations were found between gender and smoking status or between comorbidities and pathergy test results.

PG is frequently associated with systemic diseases, particularly IBD and malignancy, suggesting a syndromic relationship. Multidisciplinary evaluation is recommended for affected patients. Treatment satisfaction was highest for biologics and immunosuppressants, providing direction for future clinical management and research.