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Pressure ulcer - Symptom

Alternative Names

Bedsore; Decubitus ulcer

Symptoms:

Pressure sores are categorized by severity, from Stage I (earliest signs) to Stage IV (worst):
  • Stage I: A reddened area on the skin that, when pressed, is "non-blanchable" (does not turn white). This indicates that a pressure ulcer is starting to develop.
  • Stage II: The skin blisters or forms an open sore. The area around the sore may be red and irritated.
  • Stage III: The skin breakdown now looks like a crater where there is damage to the tissue below the skin.
  • Stage IV: The pressure ulcer has become so deep that there is damage to the muscle and bone, and sometimes tendons and joints.
  • Reviewed last on: 7/11/2008
  • Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Garcia AD, Thomas DR. Assessment and Management of Chronic Pressure Ulcers in the Elderly. Med Clin North Am. 2006 Sep;90(5):925-44.

Fonder MA, Lazarus GS, Cowan DA, Aronson-Cook B, Kohli AR, Mamelak AJ. Treating the chronic wound: A practical approach to the care of nonhealing wounds and wound care dressings. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Feb;58(2):185-206.

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