# Multiple Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas on Primary Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis in a 19-Year-Old Black Subject

## TL;DR

A 19-year-old Black patient with a rare skin condition developed multiple skin cancers on his scalp, highlighting the need for preventive care in similar cases.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the occurrence of multiple cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas in a young Black patient with epidermodysplasia verruciformis.

## Key findings

- A 19-year-old male with epidermodysplasia verruciformis developed three squamous cell carcinomas on his scalp.
- The patient's condition was associated with chronic human papillomavirus infection and hypochromic skin lesions.
- Management was limited by financial constraints in a region with fragile health systems and high UV exposure.

## Abstract

Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by chronic human papillomavirus infection of the skin and a risk of carcinomatous degeneration. We report a case of EV complicated by multiple cutaneous carcinomas of the scalp in a 19-year-old subject.

A 19-year-old male, phototype VI according to Fitzpatrick's classification, was referred to the dermatology department of CHU Kara with multiple painful tumoral lesions of the scalp that had been evolving for about 1 year. Clinical examination revealed hypochromic macules (Pityriasis versicolor-like), hypochromic verrucous flat papules scattered over the face, scalp, neck, trunk, and upper limbs. These lesions were associated with occasional pruritus. Apart from these lesions, there were three ulcerative-bourgeonous tumors on the scalp. A normal blood count was obtained, and the HIV serological test was negative. Histological examination of lesion biopsies confirmed the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma for all three lesions. Patient management was limited by lack of financial resources.

As sub-Saharan Africa is characterized by fragile health systems and high solar gradients, particular emphasis must be placed on preventive measures for skin cancers in patients with genodermatoses at risk of degeneration.