For a patient with a chronic, nonhealing decubitus ulcer who complains of leg pain, what is a potential complication?

A chronic, nonhealing decubitus ulcer poses a significant risk for infection that can extend to the underlying bone. Osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone, frequently arises from pressure ulcers, especially when they are deep and expose underlying tissues and structures. The presence of leg pain in this context could suggest that the infection may have infiltrated deeper tissues, possibly leading to osteomyelitis, especially in patients with compromised circulation or diabetes.

In situations where a pressure ulcer forms, and there is consistent breakdown of tissue, microorganisms can enter the wound, potentially leading to systemic infection as well. Since osteomyelitis can develop from untreated or inadequately treated decubitus ulcers, it becomes a critical consideration in managing such wounds, especially if other signs of infection are present.

The other options, though they may have some association with leg pain or complications related to pressure ulcers, either do not directly relate to the primary concern of infection stemming from a decubitus ulcer, or they reflect complications that are less directly linked to the chronic nature of the ulcer. Thus, osteomyelitis stands out as a specific and serious potential complication in this scenario.