Arterial Ulcers

Arterial (or ischaemic) ulcers are less common than venous ulcers and account for about 20% of leg ulcers. Atherosclerosis and diabetes are the commonest causes, but thrombotic episodes secondary to vasculitis (thromboangitis), and sickle cell disease can also result in arterial ulcers. Arterial ulceration typically develops on the dorsum of the foot or toes. Pain, with exercise or at night, is one characteristic of arterial ulcers and it is often aggravated by leg elevation.