A Case of Recurrent Idiopathic Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare chronic neutrophilic dermatosis that can be associated with underlying conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and neoplasms, or can be idiopathic. Classically, it presents as painful skin lesions. We present a case of a 54-year-old woman who got a synovial cyst removed from her left hand, which later aggravated into a non-healing wound, and subsequently a painful necrotic ulcer. The histological pattern combined with the clinical features suggested PG. General wound care was performed, associated with topical tacrolimus and oral corticotherapy with a good response. Three similar episodes with lesions scattered over the body followed and required a combination of other pharmacological alternatives. An extensive etiological study was carried out to screen secondary causes without any relevant findings. Therefore, an idiopathic relapsing PG was assumed. PG is poorly understood, underdiagnosed and hard to treat. It has a clear impact on the quality of life of the patient, so high suspicion and timely treatment are essential to minimize complications.

Automated summary

This article presents a case of difficult-to-treat pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), a rare skin condition. The patient underwent synovial cyst removal surgery but later developed a non-healing wound and painful ulcer. With a combination of treatments, the patient's condition improved. The article highlights the impact of PG on patients' quality of life and emphasizes the importance of high suspicion and timely treatment to minimize complications.