[Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas: a complication of severe forms of hereditary epidermolysis bullosa].

Abstract

Despite an increase in life expectancy and quality of life for patients suffering from severe forms of hereditary epidermolysis bullosa, the occurrence of one or more cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas remains a sometimes serious complication, sometimes life-threatening as early as adolescence. These carcinomas occur preferably on chronic wounds or dystrophic scars in areas not exposed to the sun, and are generally multifocal and recurrent. Their clinical and histological diagnosis is difficult. Regular medical and paramedical monitoring of the skin during dressing repairs enables early detection and rapid, curative surgical management. The pathophysiology of these cutaneous carcinomas is the subject of research aimed at proposing non-surgical alternatives to the patients concerned.