Pyoderma Gangrenosum: Dermatologic Application of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

December 2007 | Volume 6 | Issue 12 | Original Article | 1214 | Copyright © December 2007


William D. Tutrone MD, Kim Green MS, Jeffrey M. Weinberg MD, Selin Caglar MD, Dick Clarke

Abstract
Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis of skin and subcutaneous tissue. The current accepted theory is that PG is an immunologic-based phenomenon. Several therapies have been used to control this disease, including corticosteroids, antibiotics, immunotherapy, dapsone, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This article will review the application of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy in patients with PG. Information for this manuscript was derived from multiple searches of MEDLINE and the National Baromedical Service literature collection. HBO therapy has been shown to effectively treat PG ulcers and reduce pain associated with PG in several case studies. Evidence from the studies cited herein help to establish a foundation for further research to investigate the role of HBO therapy as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of PG.