Malodorous fungating wounds: how dressings alleviate symptoms

Fungating wounds are unlikely to heal and therefore, the prime consideration should be the treatment and, where possible, the elimination of symptoms such as malodour. Malodour is the byproduct of bacteria and the fatty acids that are part of necrotic tissue. Application of dressings that block the odour, such as charcoal, or dressings that are antimicrobial, will reduce or remove the malodour that has such a negative effect on the patient's quality of life.