Erosion
- Partial loss of epithelial or mucosal surface that heals by resolution (ie. replacement by fully functional tissue)
Ulcer
- Full thickness loss of epithelial or mucosal surface which heals by repair (replacement with fibrous tissue) with or without resolution
Factors affecting rate of healing of ulcer
- Local
- Persisting cause (acid secretion, continuing infection, continuing sepsis)
- Persisting inability to detect damage (hypoasthesia, anaesthesia)
- Poor blood supply - ischaemia
- Neoplastic process (ulcerated carcinoma)
- Systemic
- Malnutrition
- Immune deficienc: diabetes, AIDS