BACKGROUND: The term "Marjolin's ulcer" is now synonymous with malignant transformation, usually ectodermal and rarely mesenchymal, of chronic ulcers, sinus tracts, and burn scars. DESIGN: Literature search and personal experience with 5 patients during a 30-year period in a spinal cord injury center. FINDINGS: Five cases of Marjolin's ulcer diagnosed among approximately 10,000 patients indicate the rarity of the metaplasia. All cases were fatal. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic pressure ulcers of more than 10 years' duration should be biopsied to rule out malignancy, especially with any change in the nature of the ulcer (eg, exuberant granulation and/or bleeding).
BACKGROUND: The term "Marjolin's ulcer" is now synonymous with malignant transformation, usually ectodermal and rarely mesenchymal, of chronic ulcers, sinus tracts, and burn scars. DESIGN: Literature search and personal experience with 5 patients during a 30-year period in a spinal cord injury center. FINDINGS: Five cases of Marjolin's ulcer diagnosed among approximately 10,000 patients indicate the rarity of the metaplasia. All cases were fatal. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic pressure ulcers of more than 10 years' duration should be biopsied to rule out malignancy, especially with any change in the nature of the ulcer (eg, exuberant granulation and/or bleeding).