Insights into the Pathogenesis of Pyoderma Gangrenosum

J Invest Dermatol. 2025 Jun;145(6):1305-1322. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.09.023. Epub 2024 Dec 24.

Abstract

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a neutrophilic dermatosis of unclear etiology. Numerous theories of its underlying pathogenesis have been proposed, including external triggers, neutrophilic dysfunction, complement activation, and autoimmunity, as well as a possible component of underlying genetic susceptibility. This review seeks to synthesize current understanding of the pathogenesis of PG and integrate interactions between the multitude of implicated host immune pathways to guide and inform future directions into the treatment of PG.

Keywords: Biologics; NETosis; Neutrophilic dermatosis; Pathogenesis; Pyoderma gangrenosum.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmunity
  • Complement Activation / immunology
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Neutrophils / immunology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / etiology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / genetics
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / immunology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum* / pathology