What characterizes an arterial ulcer?

An arterial ulcer is characterized primarily by its association with poor arterial blood flow, which leads to ischemia in the affected tissues. These ulcers typically develop on the lower legs or feet due to inadequate blood supply. This condition often arises from peripheral artery disease (PAD), where the narrowing of arteries reduces oxygen-rich blood flow to the extremities.

The formation of arterial ulcers is marked by specific clinical features: they tend to be painful, have well-defined borders, and often present with a dry appearance. The surrounding skin may be cold or pale, and there is usually a lack of hair growth in the area due to the compromised blood supply.

In contrast to other types of ulcers, such as venous ulcers, which are caused by poor venous flow, arterial ulcers distinctly stem from arterial insufficiency. Therefore, the connection to compromised arterial blood flow is what firmly defines this type of ulcer, and that is what makes the correct response clear in this context.