Treatment of venous ulcers in drug addicts: A case report

Abstract

Venous ulcers are common in drug addicts and, although the management of these wounds is the same as in other patients, there are differences in the approach and the outcome of treatment. Those injecting drugs are at risk of serious infections, such as necrotizing fasciitis, wound botulism, and cutaneous anthrax due to the nature of the substances being injected. Herein, we present two cases of venous ulcers in drug addicts in their thirties. Both patients had been suffering from a venous ulcer for several years and the final result differed in the two patients. We concluded that it is necessary to raise awareness of the importance of treatment and lifestyle changes. The multidisciplinary approach in these patients may contribute to the improvement of wound healing.

Comorbidities as prognostic factors in the healing of venous ulcers

“…The thrombotic process causes inflammation, scarring, and adhesion of the valves and luminal narrowing [4,5]. This leads to valvular incompetence and reflux, which further increase venous pressure and worsen chronic venous insufficiency [5,6].…”