We often document exudate by volume (low / moderate / heavy / variable), but the real story is in its composition and concentration.
Chronic wound exudate typically contains:
High levels of proteases (e.g. MMPs) that degrade provisional matrix
Reduced growth factors, diluted or destroyed by the same enzymes
Bacterial by-products and inflammatory mediators
When this concentrated ”soup” sits on the wound bed and peri-wound skin, it can extend tissue damage instead of supporting healing.
Critical thinking:
Don’t just say ”a lot of exudate” – ask yourself:
Why is this tissue producing it (inflammation, infection, overload, edema)?
Is this exudate likely supportive or destructive for this wound right now?
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
