Leg and foot ulcers. An epidemiological survey

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Dermatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Leg and foot ulcers represent a significant clinical challenge.
• Understanding patient demographics and ulcer characteristics is crucial for effective management.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated sex-specific differences in leg and foot ulcer presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the demographic characteristics of patients with leg and foot ulcers.
• To analyze the prevalence and distribution of leg and foot ulcers.
• To explore potential sex-based differences in ulcer development and characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records for 1377 leg and foot ulcer patients.
• Data collection included patient demographics, ulcer location, and age at diagnosis.
• Prevalence estimation based on population data.

Main Results:

• The study included 1377 patients, with women comprising 61% and a median age of 76 years (vs. 70 for men).
• Thirty percent of patients had foot ulcers only, with a 1:1 sex ratio, but men developed them 5-10 years earlier.
• Seventeen percent had calf ulcers only, predominantly affecting women (70%).
• Estimated prevalence of leg and foot ulcers ranged from 0.2-0.4% of the general population.

Conclusions:

• Leg and foot ulcers affect a substantial patient population, with a higher prevalence in women.
• Significant sex-based differences exist in the age of onset and specific locations of ulcers.
• Multidisciplinary care approaches are essential for managing these complex conditions.