An evaluation of Actilite - Antibacterial non-adherent dressing with Activon Plus: Case study 5

This study was undertaken by Jivka Dimitrova - Tissue Viability Specialist Nurse. The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust

Case study 5

Obese female patient with bilateral lower leg lymphodoema and leg u

A 58 year old lady transferred form another hospital with acute on chronic renal failure and respiratory failure. The patient was morbidly obese with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, bilateral lower leg lymphodoema, leg ulcers, poor mobility and diabetic neuropathy.

Due to chronic skin changes and hyperkeratosis, papilomatosis, elephant skin, warty appearance, patients with gross lymphodoema are prone to recurrent inflammatory episodes and cellulitis. On first assessment, patient presented with blistering to dorsal  aspect of left foot, due to cellulitis. One week treatment of Actilite, secondary padding and bandage, changed every three days resulted in a rapid improvement of the condition of the skin.

All blistered areas were fully epithelialised and cellulitis had subsided. She was then transferred to another hospital.