Differential diagnosis of stage 2, 3 and 4 pressure injuries of the pelvis and lower extremity: a case series

Abstract

Constant, unrelieved pressure of local tissue, particularly over bony prominences, may provoke damage that progresses to necrosis and pressure injury (PI). Differentiating PIs from conditions of similar appearance is imperative to minimising complications and implementing prompt treatment. This case series describes several conditions that may be mistaken for a PI. Outlined are the key differences in patient history, presentation and clinical cues that assist in correctly identifying the true pathology behind these conditions. Conditions reviewed included: pyoderma gangrenosum; necrotising fasciitis; genital herpes; Marjolin ulcer, Rosai–Dorfman disease; vascular disease; coagulopathies; calciphylaxis; trauma and surgical wounds; pilonidal cysts; graft-versus-host disease; hidradenitis suppurativa; Stevens–Johnson syndrome; epidermolysis bullosa; radiation wounds; spider bites; and end-of-life skin failure pressure ulcers (also known as Kennedy ulcers). Although commonly recognised and diagnosed, stage 2, 3 and 4 PIs occasionally prove to be difficult to pinpoint, with undefined characteristics and similarities in presentation to several other conditions. Therefore, it is clinically vital to be aware of their appearance, risk factors and aetiology in order to make an appropriate patient assessment and avoid misdiagnosis.