Synchronous carcinoma and sarcoma in a burn scar: a treatment conundrum

BMJ Case Rep. 2024 Apr 1;17(4):e257102. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2023-257102.

Abstract

Marjolijn's ulcer is a malignant ulcer in a burn scar. Types of malignancy are squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Soft tissue sarcoma case reports indicate only one type of cancer. We present a patient in her 60s with a 10-year-old burn scar developing a biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma on the lateral aspect of the left thigh with metastatic superficial inguinal node. A wide excision and grafting of ulcer with ilioinguinal dissection done on left side. On the 12th postoperative day 2, subcutaneous swellings adjacent to the grafted area developed, on biopsy revealed to be pleomorphic sarcoma. PET CT scan revealed tumour deposits in the muscles of the left lower limb, liver and lung. There are no case reports of synchronous carcinoma and sarcoma in a burn scar. The case is reported for its rarity and the decision-making dilemma.

Keywords: cancer intervention; dermatology; oncology; skin cancer; surgical oncology.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Burns* / complications
  • Burns* / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / pathology
  • Cicatrix / complications
  • Cicatrix / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Sarcoma* / complications
  • Sarcoma* / surgery
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms* / complications
  • Ulcer / complications