Leg ulcer

An open sore on the leg that fails to heal, usually resulting from poor blood circulation to or from the area. There are various types of ulcer. Venous ulcers (also referred to as varicose or stasis ulcers) occur mainly on the ankles and lower legs and are caused by valve failure in veins; they usually appear in conjunction with varicose veins. Bedsores (decubitus ulcers) develop on pressure spots on the legs due to a combination of poor circulation, pressure, and immobility over a long period. Leg ulcers can also be due to peripheral vascular disease and diabetes mellitus. In the tropics, some infections can cause tropical ulcers.