25.1.20
Fungating Wounds
Malawi Standard Treatment Guidelines, 6th Edition, 2023. Chapter 25, Palliative Care.
Clinical Description
Fungating wounds are a complication of cancer and may develop in patients with advanced disease (advanced cancer). Common causes (see relevant chapter for details)
Non-pharmacological
- smells associated with fungating wounds can be very distressing for patients and family members, use of charcoal/coffee in the room may absorb some of the smells
Pharmacological
- crush metronidazole tablets and apply as powder to the surface of fungating wound once or twice daily.
Complications and Referral Criteria
- Depending on the level of care, referral is necessary for appropriate management.
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