What is the medical term for a black scar on the heel?

From the Guidelines

The medical term for a black scar on the heel is likely a plantar wart with hemorrhage or a melanotic macule. Based on the provided evidence, there is no direct mention of a black scar on the heel, but we can consider the possible causes of such a lesion. Plantar warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear as dark spots when blood vessels within them rupture, creating trapped blood beneath the skin 1. Treatment options include over-the-counter salicylic acid products, cryotherapy (freezing) performed by a healthcare provider, or prescription treatments for resistant cases. However, any persistent black spot on the skin should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. The black appearance results from either blood trapped within the lesion or melanin pigmentation. If the spot changes in size, shape, or color, bleeds easily, or is accompanied by pain, immediate medical attention is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Some key points to consider:

• The provided evidence focuses on guidelines for offloading foot ulcers in persons with diabetes, but does not directly address the medical term for a black scar on the heel 1.
• The term "lesion" is defined in the evidence as any abnormality associated with damage to the skin, nails, or deep tissues of the foot, which could potentially include a black scar on the heel 1.
• It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of any persistent black spot on the skin, as it could be a sign of a serious underlying condition.

Given the lack of direct evidence on the topic, it is crucial to prioritize caution and recommend a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the black scar on the heel and provide appropriate treatment.

From the Research

Medical Term for Black Scar on the Heel

The medical term for a black scar on the heel is not explicitly mentioned in the provided studies. However, based on the context of diabetic foot ulcers, it can be related to:

• Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) which can cause scars and discoloration on the heel due to various pathological mechanisms 2, 3.
• Osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone, can also cause ulcers and scars on the heel, as seen in a case study where a patient had a dry ulcer on the heel caused by unrecognized trauma 3.
• The formation of eschar, a black necrotic tissue, can occur in diabetic foot ulcers, especially in cases of ischemia and neuropathy 4.

Possible Causes

Some possible causes of a black scar on the heel include:

• Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) 5, 6, 2, 3.
• Osteomyelitis 3.
• Trauma 3.
• Ischemia and neuropathy 4.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for diabetic foot ulcers and related conditions include:

• Surgical debridement 5, 2, 3.
• Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) 2, 3.
• Maggot therapy 2.
• Silver foam dressing 2.
• Nanoflex powder 3.
• Antibiotic therapy 4.