CASE REPORT OF A RARE CASE OF MALIGNANT MELANOMA IN THE CONTEXT OF A MARJOLIN ULCER

Objective:To explore the rare association between Marjolin ulcer and melanoma, in order to better understand the risk factors and to encourage research on early diagnosis and management of atypical skin lesions.

Methods:Case study of a 69-year-old female patient with an ulcerative and budding lesion on an unstable scar resulting from a burn sustained at the age of 5, requiring histopathological evaluation to rule out malignancy.

Discussion:Marjolin ulcer is a malignant degenerative complication that occurs on an unstable scar, often caused by burns, appearing decades after the trauma. Most cases are squamous cell carcinomas, but melanoma can also develop on chronic unstable scars. Although less common, it carries a higher risk of metastasis. The patient presented with stage IV disease according to the TNM-AJCC 2017 system, which complicates the prognosis.

Conclusion:Marjolin ulcer, linked to chronic inflammation, promotes cellular mutations and an increased risk of melanoma, particularly on old burns. Management includes surgical excision and lymph node dissection, with treatment options such as immunotherapy for metastatic cases. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor recurrences and prevent malignant transformations.