Malignant melanoma arising within a burn scar case report and review of the literature

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2001 Apr;110(4):369-76. doi: 10.1177/000348940111000414.

Abstract

Burn scar carcinomas, also called Marjolin's ulcers, are uncommon tumors that arise from an antecedent burn. Most burn scar carcinomas are diagnosed about 30 years after the burn, and most are well-differentiated squamous cell carcinomas. We report a case in which a squamous cell carcinoma developed within a burn scar on the cheek and then a malignant melanoma arose within the burn scar after the squamous cell carcinoma had been excised. We also review the available literature on burn scar carcinoma, covering the demographics, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of the disease. Given the multifocality of this disease process, we advocate aggressive resection of the entire burn scar, as well as the tumor, to prevent the development of further cancers within the wound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Burns / complications*
  • Cicatrix / etiology*
  • Cicatrix / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Melanoma / surgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Skin Transplantation