[The multiple hamartoma syndrome (Cowden syndrome)]

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Oncology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Multiple hamartoma syndrome is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder.
• It involves a wide range of mesodermal and epithelial hamartomas and tumors across organ systems.

Observation:

• Dermatological signs include facial and extremity papular lesions and extensive oral papillomatosis.
• These oral lesions often extend throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

Findings:

• This study reports the first three cases in German literature.
• No malignant tumors were found in these cases, but one patient had a meningioma.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of recognizing multiple hamartoma syndrome.
• Underscores the need for vigilance regarding potential malignancies, even in the absence of detected cancers.