Squamous cell carcinoma secondary to Buruli ulcer in West Africa

Background. - Buruli ulcer is an infection caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans occurring in tropical areas. In West Africa, it is an emerging threat mainly affecting children aged under 15 years. This chronic disease is complicated by dystrophic scars in which squamous cell carcinoma can occur in the long term. Patients and methods. - This is a retrospective study of squamous cell carcinomas in Buruli ulcer scars seen at the Treichville University Hospital (Abidjan, Ivory Coast) over a five-year period. Results. - During the study period, 8 cases were observed and concerned young adults presenting Buruli ulcer in their childhood. Tumours were restricted to the limbs, with loco-regional invasion. Treatment was primarily surgical. Four of the patients died. Discussion. - The risk of recurrence of cancer in these scars remains poorly evaluated, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring strategies for human patients in order to ensure rapid identification of any changes in Buruli ulcer scars. (C) 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.