The exact cause of pyoderma gangrenosum is unknown. The condition is not infectious or contagious. It's often associated with autoimmune diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and arthritis. And it may have a genetic component.
If you have pyoderma gangrenosum, new skin trauma, such as a cut or puncture wound, may trigger new ulcers.
Risk factors:
Your age and sex: The condition can affect anyone at any age, though it's more common between 20 and 50 years of age.
Having inflammatory bowel disease: People with a digestive tract disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease are at increased risk of pyoderma gangrenosum.
Having arthritis: People with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk of pyoderma gangrenosum.
Having a blood disorder: People with acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplasia or a myeloproliferative disorder are at increased risk of pyoderma gangrenosum.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic