Chronic Venous Disease May Delay the Diagnosis of Malignant Ulceration of the Leg

Abstract

Objective:

To emphasize the association of cutaneous malignancy and chronic venous disease of the lower limb.

Design:

A descriptive study, reporting six cases, with a discussion of the literature.

Setting:

St Thomas' Hospital Outpatient Department.

Patients:

Six outpatients.

Conclusions:

The development of both squamous carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma may be associated with chronic venous disease of the lower limb. Modest dimensions or a healthy appearance that are out of keeping with a protracted course may be signs of malignancy in a leg ulcer. A punch biopsy under local anaesthesia in the outpatient department provides accurate diagnosis of a malignant ulcer allowing prompt treatment.