Hyder Ali, Yusra Afzal, Syfyan Ahmed, Mujtuba Pervaiz, Masood Hussain Rao, Syed Muhammad Ali.
Marjolin`s Ulcer and Burn Scars; a Preventable Association.
Professional Med J Jan ;25(6):799-804.

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.

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