Diagnosis of Bedsores
Physicians assess pressure sores by the patient's history and physical exam. In most patients, the diagnosis is made clinically and is categorized or staged as described above. However, laboratory studies determine the extent of the problem and some of its underlying contributing problems. For example, nutritional parameters can be determined by looking at tests that determine serum protein levels transferrin levels, albumin levels, and others like the WBC count, blood cultures, and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) tests may identify signs of anemia, sepsis, and/or osteomyelitis. Other tests such as bone scans, X-rays, MRIs, and/or bone biopsies may be utilized to help stage pressure sores.