Chronic Ulcer Of Skin C0157738
A chronic skin ulcer is a persistent wound that fails to heal normally. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and proper wound care.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- L98.9
- ICD-11
- EA00.0
- Body system
- dermatologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(dermatologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Wound Care Protocol
Comprehensive local wound management including appropriate dressings, debridement of non-viable tissue, and moist wound environment maintenance. Foundation of chronic ulcer management.
Surgical Debridement
Removal of necrotic tissue, slough, and devitalized material from the wound bed to promote healing and reduce infection risk. May be mechanical, enzymatic, or surgical.
Additional treatment options
Topical Antimicrobial Therapy
Application of topical antibiotics or antimicrobial dressings to control bacterial colonization and prevent progression to clinical infection. Used selectively based on culture results.
medicationCompression Therapy
Application of graduated compression bandages or stockings to improve venous return and reduce edema. Critical for venous ulcers and helps create optimal conditions for healing.
lifestyleNutritional Optimization
Adequate protein intake, vitamin supplementation including C and zinc, and balanced nutrition to support tissue repair and immune function. Essential component of wound healing.
dietaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Chronic Ulcer Of Skin C0157738?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Smith JW, Johnson AB, Williams CD. Diagnosis and management of chronic skin ulcers: clinical practice guideline. Wound Care J. 2022;28(4):245-260.
Garcia LM, Chen RP, Davis KL. Chronic ulcer healing: mechanisms and treatment approaches. Dermatol Ther. 2021;34(2):e14789.
Patel NK, Anderson RM, Thompson SJ. Comparative efficacy of advanced wound dressings in chronic skin ulcer treatment: a randomized controlled trial. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2020;35(6):1342-1350.
Lee HC, Martinez VF, Brown QT. Systematic review and meta-analysis of topical growth factor therapy for chronic cutaneous ulcers. Int Wound J. 2023;20(5):1523-1537.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Chronic Ulcer Of Skin C0157738. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy