MARJOLIN’S ULCER AND BURN SCARS

A PREVENTABLE ASSOCIATION.

Abstract

Background: Marjolin’s ulcer (MU) represents malignant degeneration that
typically ensues over a period of time in the post-burned lesions and scars or any other chronic
wound. The worldwide incidence of MUs in such lesions is reported to be 0.77%-2%. Objectives:
To determine the frequency of malignancy in post burn scars. Study Design: Descriptive, cross
sectional. Place & Setting: Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dow University
of Health Sciences & Dr Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi. Duration: December 2014 to
November 2017. Materials & Methods: A selection criterion was defined and via non probability
consecutive sampling. Sample Size: 80 patients. Results: The mean age of the patients was
48.6 ± 9.2years with range (30 to 60 years). The mean duration of scars was found in our
study to be 20.4+5.1 years. Out of 80 patients, 33 (41%) were male and 47 (59%) were female.
Malignancy was recorded in 66(82.5%) patients with post burn scar. The most common type
of malignancy was squamous cell carcinoma in 27 patients (33%). Conclusion: A high index
of suspicion is required when dealing with chronic non-healing ulcers. In our environment
early recognition and aggressive treatment of Marjolin’s ulcers and close follow-up are vital for
prevention and also to improve outcome.