Infections of arterial or venous leg ulcers

For noninfected arterial or venous ulcers, do not perform culture or start antibiotic therapy (including topical therapy); antibiotics are unnecessary and may cause harm (eg hypersensitivity reactions, bacterial resistance; see also Types of adverse effects of antimicrobials). Avoid cytotoxic antiseptics (eg sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide) because they may impede wound healing.

For mild infection (eg infection of the skin or subcutaneous tissue without systemic signs or symptoms), treat as for cellulitis and erysipelas without systemic features.

For detailed information about management, see Arterial leg ulcers and Venous leg ulcers.