Pyoderma gangrenosum

Overview

Pyoderma gangrenosum (pie-oh-DER-muh gang-ruh-NO-sum) is a rare skin condition that causes painful open sores (ulcers). The ulcers often begin at the site of a minor puncture or cut and then expand rapidly. While pyoderma gangrenosum ulcers can occur anywhere on your body, they most commonly occur on the legs. People who have autoimmune diseases, particularly inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis, are at higher risk of pyoderma gangrenosum.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for pyoderma gangrenosum

• Experience. Pyoderma gangrenosum was first identified by Mayo doctors more than 80 years ago. Although this is a rare disease, Mayo has a long experience in diagnosing and treating it.
• Accurate diagnosis. Similar-appearing ulcers can be caused by many diseases. Mayo Clinic specialists work as an integrated team to arrive at an accurate diagnosis so that you get proper treatment.
• Comprehensive resources. At each campus, Mayo has the expertise to treat pyoderma gangrenosum and any other disease that may be associated with it.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

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