Glossary

Author: Glossary

  • Ulegyria

    A condition in which gyri of the cerebral cortex are abnormal due to scar tissue from injuries, usually occurring in early development.  

  • Venous stasis ulcer

    A poorly, slowly healing ulcer, usually located on the lower extremity above the medial malleolus. Typically it is edematous, pigmented, and scarred. The skin is extremely fragile and easily injured. In the U.S. about 3.5% of people over 65 have venous stasis ulcers, women are three times more likely than men to be affected.  

  • Venereal ulcer

    An ulcer caused by a sexually transmitted disease (i.e., chancre or chancroid).  

  • Traumatic ulcer

    An ulcer due to injury of the oral mucosa. Its causes include biting, denture irritation, toothbrush injury, and sharp edges of teeth or restorations.  

  • Stercoral ulcer

    A rarely occurring ulcer of the colon caused by pressure from impacted feces. Perforation through the walls of the colon may cause peritonitis, sepsis, and, sometimes, death.  

  • Shield ulcer

    A corneal ulcer found in some patients with vernal conjunctivitis. The ulcer is sometimes associated with corneal plaques that may permanently impair vision.  

  • Serpiginous ulcer

    A creeping ulcer that heals in one part and extends to another.  

  • Perforating ulcer

    An ulcer that erodes through an organ (e.g., the stomach or duodenum).  

  • Indolent ulcer

    A nearly painless ulcer usually found on the leg, characterized by an indurated, elevated edge and a non-granulating base. An indolent ulcer refers to a wound that heals slowly and typically causes minimal pain. An ulcer with a low likelihood of healing, also known as a callous ulcer.  

  • Follicular ulcer

    A tiny ulcer originating in a lymph follicle and affecting a mucous membrane.