Hypertensive leg ulcers.

A case report of hypertensive leg ulcer and its management is described. The diagnosis of hypertensive leg ulcer is primarily based upon clinical findings after other etiologies have been excluded. Microscopic arteriolar changes associated with hypertensive disease do not necessarily preclude the development of hypertensive ulcers. Therapy of these ulcers is based upon a sound understanding of their pathophysiology--control of systemic hypertension, possible enhancement of local tissue perfusion, atraumatic debridement, and skin graft closure.