Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Chronic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Coincidence or Malignant Transformation

TL;DR

A man with a long-lasting skin infection developed skin cancer at the same site, suggesting chronic infections might lead to cancer.

Contribution

This case report suggests chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis may transform into squamous cell carcinoma.

Findings

A 69-year-old man developed SCC at the site of a chronic CL lesion.

The SCC was diagnosed after three years of persistent infection.

The case highlights the need for monitoring non-healing ulcers for cancer.

Abstract

We report the case of a 69-year-old man who developed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at the site of a chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) lesion on the dorsum of his left hand. The lesion had persisted for over three years despite multiple local and systemic treatments. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of well-differentiated SCC. The patient was lost to follow-up for a year and returned with locally advanced disease, ultimately requiring hand amputation. This case underscores the potential for malignant transformation in chronic leishmaniasis lesions and highlights the need for timely biopsy and long-term monitoring of atypical or non-healing ulcers in endemic regions.

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