We specifically excluded patients with ulcers that may have been caused by other conditions. The hemoglobin level of Disla and colleagues' patient was not controlled, which raises the possibility of viscosity as a contributing factor. However, if other conditions causing leg ulceration are treated successfully but ulcers persist, hydroxyurea is the likely offending agent and discontinuation of this therapy is often necessary. Occasionally, as observed with two of our patients, decreasing the dosage may result in substantial improvement in or resolution of leg ulcers. Patricia J. Best, MD Robert M. Petitt, MD Mark R. Pittelkow, MD Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 55905 References 1.
Skin changes secondary to hydroxyurea therapy.
J Am Acad Dermatol. Cancer Chemotherapy Reports. Cutaneous manifestations in patients with essential thrombocythemia. J Am Acad Dermatol. All rights reserved.