What are factitious ulcers?

Factitious ulcers refer to ulcerations that are intentionally created or induced by an individual, often as a means of psychological coping or to gain attention or sympathy. These self-inflicted wounds can manifest in oddly shaped patterns due to the nature of the individual’s actions or methods used to cause them.

The rationale behind this behavior can stem from underlying psychological issues, where the individual may feel a need to demonstrate suffering or to escape from social, economic, or personal stressors. Recognizing the distinct characteristics of factitious ulcers is crucial in wound management and patient care since these ulcers can complicate recovery and necessitate a multidisciplinary approach addressing both physical and psychological needs.

In contrast, ulcers arising from systemic diseases typically have distinct etiologies related to underlying health conditions that affect blood flow or tissue viability. Those related to chronic pressure are caused by consistent pressure on specific areas of the body, leading to tissue ischemia. Infected and poorly healing wounds often have identifiable causes, such as bacterial infection or inadequate wound care, and are not self-inflicted. Understanding these differences helps healthcare professionals in establishing appropriate treatment plans and interventions.