Table 1 Classification of PG
From: Pyoderma gangrenosum after totally implanted central venous access device insertion
Ulcerous PG | The most common form is the ulcerous type. It is rapidly progressive, severely painful and characterized by a necrolytic, mucopurulent deep ulcer with an undermined, violaceous, oedematous livid border. PG ulcer is a dynamic process, rapidly destroying skin tissue, producing a liquefactive necrosis. It is associated with arthritis (37%), IBD (30%), hematological malignancies, multiple myeloma, paraproteinema and other conditions. Aggressive immunosuppressant treatment is indispensable. |
Pustulous PG | Pustulous PG is characterized by multiple lesions with inflammatory borders. It is strongly associated with IBD. Upon remission of IBD, skin lesions also improve. |
Vegetans PG | Vegetans PG is solitary, slowly progressive form of PG, characterized by superficial ulcerations with defined borders, sometimes presenting exophytic growth. Less aggressive systemic or topical treatment is usually sufficient. |
Bullous PG | Bullous PG is characterized by painful superficial bullae with progressive ulceration and erythematous borders. It is associated with myeloproliferative syndromes and has a poor prognosis if associated with leukemia. Systemic immunosuppression is necessary. |