Burn scar carcinoma. Diagnosis and management

Dermatol Surg. 1998 May;24(5):561-5.

Abstract

Background: The term Marjolin ulcer is now synonymous with malignant transformation of chronic ulcers, sinus tracts, and burn scars.

Objective: To illustrate the importance of incisional or excisional biopsies in cases of suspected burn scar carcinoma.

Methods: Case report and review of the literature.

Results: Multiple punch biopsies were negative while a complete excision revealed the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusion: Because of the focal nature of malignant change in burn scars, incisional or excisional biopsy should be performed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Burns / complications*
  • Carcinoma in Situ / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma in Situ / etiology
  • Carcinoma in Situ / surgery*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / etiology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery*
  • Cicatrix / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mohs Surgery
  • Neoplasms, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms, Post-Traumatic / surgery
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Skin Transplantation