Pressure ulcers: Pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors, and presentation

Though preventable in most cases, pressure ulcers continue to pose a major burden to the individual and society, affecting <= 3 million adults annually in the United States alone. Despite increased national attention over the past 20 years, the prevalence of pressure ulcers has largely remained unchanged, while the associated costs of care continue to increase. Dermatologists can play a significant role in pressure ulcer prevention by becoming aware of at-risk populations and implementing suitable preventive strategies. Moreover, dermatologists should be able to recognize early changes that occur before skin breakdown and to properly identify and stage pressure ulcers to prevent delay of appropriate care. The aim of the first article in this continuing medical education series is to discuss the pathophysiology, risk factors, epidemiology, social and economic burdens, and clinical presentation of pressure ulcers.