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Multiple malignant melanomas at different burn scar areas: a case report
Kun Hwang1, Jin Yi Han, Se Il Lee
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Inha University Hospital, 7-206 Sinheung-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon 400-711, Korea. jokerhg@inha.ac.kr
Summary
Multiple malignant melanomas (MMs) can arise in burn scars, even when initial pathology reveals only one. Vigilant observation of pigmented lesions in burn scar patients is crucial for early detection and management of rare cutaneous malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant transformation in burn scars is uncommon, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most frequent type.
- Malignant melanomas (MMs) are rare occurrences within burn scar tissue.
Observation:
- A case of a patient presenting with multiple malignant melanomas (MMs) in distinct burn scar locations.
- Initial presentation included a large pigmented nodular lesion with central ulceration on the right flank.
Findings:
- Pathological examination of the right flank lesion revealed lentigo malignant melanoma (LMM).
- A second, smaller pigmented lesion on the right arm was also diagnosed as lentigo malignant melanoma (LMM).
Implications:
- This case underscores the possibility of co-existing or subsequent tumors in burn scar patients, even after initial diagnosis.
- Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion and perform thorough examinations of burn scars, chronic ulcers, and pigmented lesions for rare cutaneous malignancies.