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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Holes On The Back And Side Of Leg While Having Cellulitis?

My 90 year old Mum has cellulitis and is being treated with antibiotics. Her leg and foot are still very swollen but have improved very slightly. Yesterday whilst helping her to have a shower I noticed several very small holes on the back and side of her leg. What could these be?
Thu, 17 Dec 2020
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Your mum has history of Cellulitis and now you are observing holes on the side and back of the legs. It looks like your mum is also suffering from venous insufficiency. Commonly when venous stasis ulcer gets infected it leads to cellulitis. The veins have one-way valves that keep blood flowing up toward the heart. When the valves become weak or the veins become scarred & blocked, blood can flow backward and pool in your legs causing appearance of holes.

She should keep her legs raised (elevated) can reduce swelling and help increase blood flow to the legs, she should continue to take the prescription medicines. Medicines, sclerotherapy, laser ablation or surgery can be recommended by the treating doctor depending on the severity of the symptoms & pathology detected.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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What Causes Holes On The Back And Side Of Leg While Having Cellulitis?

Hello, Your mum has history of Cellulitis and now you are observing holes on the side and back of the legs. It looks like your mum is also suffering from venous insufficiency. Commonly when venous stasis ulcer gets infected it leads to cellulitis. The veins have one-way valves that keep blood flowing up toward the heart. When the valves become weak or the veins become scarred & blocked, blood can flow backward and pool in your legs causing appearance of holes. She should keep her legs raised (elevated) can reduce swelling and help increase blood flow to the legs, she should continue to take the prescription medicines. Medicines, sclerotherapy, laser ablation or surgery can be recommended by the treating doctor depending on the severity of the symptoms & pathology detected. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician