[34F] With non-healing leg wound and fatigue

Patient Description

A 34-year-old female presents with a non-healing wound on her leg that has progressed from a bump to a 2cm wide and 1cm deep gaping wound with white and green pus. The wound has been worsening over the past 48 hours. The area around the wound is red, swollen, and extremely tender to touch, with the tenderness persisting for a few days. The patient does not report fever, chills, or streaks of redness spreading from the wound. She experiences fatigue but has no other systemic symptoms. The patient's medical history is unremarkable, with no chronic illnesses or recent injuries reported. She has an allergy to Penicillin and is currently taking Topamax and Prozac. No other medications are reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Skin Infection: The presence of a wound with green and white pus, swelling, redness, and tenderness could indicate a skin infection. This could be a bacterial infection such as cellulitis or an abscess. Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms within body tissues, and can cause similar symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to fight the infection. In some cases, if an abscess has formed, it may need to be drained by a healthcare professional.
  • Skin Ulcer: This is a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane, accompanied by the disintegration of tissue. Ulcers can result in complete loss of the epidermis and often portions of the dermis and even subcutaneous fat. Ulcers are most common on the skin of the lower extremities and in the gastrointestinal tract.

    • Treatment usually involves cleaning the wound, applying dressings, and possibly using antibiotics if there's an infection.

Please note that these are just possible explanations and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history more thoroughly.

What you can do

Given the symptoms you're experiencing, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Infections can worsen and spread if left untreated. Here's what you can do in the meantime:

  1. Keep the wound clean: Gently clean the wound with warm water and mild soap. Avoid scrubbing the wound, as this can cause further damage.
  2. Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment: This can help prevent infection. However, make sure you're not allergic to any of the ingredients in the ointment.
  3. Cover the wound: Use a bandage or gauze to cover the wound. This can help protect it from bacteria and other contaminants.
  4. Rest and elevate: If possible, try to rest and elevate the wound. This can help reduce swelling.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

  • The redness or swelling worsens
  • The pain becomes severe
  • You develop a fever
  • The wound starts to smell bad
  • You notice red streaks spreading from the wound

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common signs of a skin infection?

Common signs of a skin infection include redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth around the affected area, and the presence of pus or discharge. In some cases, there may also be fever or chills.


How can I care for a non-healing wound at home?

To care for a non-healing wound at home, gently clean the wound with warm water and mild soap, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment if not allergic, cover it with a bandage or gauze, and try to rest and elevate the affected area to reduce swelling.


When should I seek medical attention for a wound?

You should seek medical attention for a wound if the redness or swelling worsens, the pain becomes severe, you develop a fever, the wound starts to smell bad, or you notice red streaks spreading from the wound.


What are the treatment options for a skin ulcer?

Treatment options for a skin ulcer typically involve cleaning the wound, applying dressings, and using antibiotics if there's an infection. In some cases, additional medical interventions may be necessary, such as debridement or specialized wound care.


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