Clinical Experience of Marjolin's Ulcers

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Marjolin's ulcer is rare but highly aggressive malignant cancer that is associated with chronic, nonhealing wounds such as burn wound. There are no confirmed effective protocols for treatment of this disease. This study was conducted to describe the clinical presentation and treatment modalities of Marjolin's ulcer in our hospital. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of Marjolin's ulcer. 20 cases were histologically confirmed malignant skin cancer seen at Chonbuk National University Hospital from January 2000 to December 2011. Data were retrieved from patients' medical records and photographs. RESULTS: The total 20 cases of Marjolin's ulcer were studied. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common pathological type in 20 patients (100%). Lymph node metastasis at the time of diagnosis was recorded in 3 patient (15%). Wide excision was the most common surgical procedure performed in 17 patients (85%) of cases. The reconstruction modalities were various as free flap 3 patients (15%), skin graft 13 patients (65%), local advancement flap 2 patients (10%) and regional flap 1 patient (5%). Local recurrence was noted in 3 patients (15%) who had surgical treatment. And one patient (5%) expired in hospital. CONCLUSION: Marjolin's ulcer is an infrequent lesion. Unfortunately the diagnosis and treatment are often delayed. If the wound was histologically confirmed, aggressive excision and reconstruction is warranted in these highly malignant skin cancer. Early recognition and aggressive treatment of Marjolin's ulcers are essential to improve outcomes.