Differential Effects of Bacteria Colonising Venous Leg Ulcers on Pain and Healing Rates

Pseudomonas is a gram-negative bacillus which commonly colonises lower limb venous ulcers. It produces exotoxins and elastase as well as forming biofilms within chronic wounds.

Its effects on venous ulcer healing are debated. The objective of this study is to examine the effects on Pseudomonas Aeruginosa colonisation on the pain expereinces and healing rates of venous leg ulcers.

Inclusion criteria

• All patients age 18+ with lower limb venous ulcers as diagnosed on clinical history and examination.
• Are willing and capable to voluntarily sign a statement of informed consent to take part in this study.
• With an ABPI of >/= 0.8 and/or palpable pedal pulses on clinical exam.
• Without evidence (either clinical or diagnostic) of other causes of lower limb ulceration, namely vasculitis, local dermopathology, congenital syndromes or arterial insufficiency (see above).
• If equipoise or disagreement between two independent clinicians exist, The ultimate decision as to inclusion/exclusion will be made by the P.I

Exclusion criteria

• Patients unable to provide informed consent.
• Patients under the age of 18
• Patients with arterial insufficiency manifesting as ABPI's of <0.8
• Known or suspected alternate likely primary cause of lower limb ulceration (vasculitis, dermatological disease, underlying congenital syndrome).
• Patients who are deemed unsuitable due to any circumstances as deemed appropriate by the P.I.