Recurrent squamous cell carcinoma complicating erythema ab igne

Sofia El Haitamy, Department of Dermatology, Hassan II University Hospital, Biomedical and Translational Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco Hanane Baybay, Department of Dermatology, Hassan II University Hospital, Biomedical and Translational Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco Sara Elloudi, Department of Dermatology, Hassan II University Hospital, Biomedical and Translational Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco Layla Tahiri-Elousrouti, Department of Pathology, Hassan II University Hospital, Biomedical and Translational Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco Fatima Zahrae-Mernissi, Department of Dermatology, Hassan II University Hospital, Biomedical and Translational Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco

Erythema ab igne (EAI) is a reticulated dermatosis caused by chronic heat exposure. Although typically benign, malignant transformation into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can occur and exhibit aggressive behavior. We report the case of a 64-year-old male presenting with a large, ulcerated, invasive SCC on his right leg, arising from chronic EAI induced by 20 yearsof electric heater and hot water bottle use. Despite successful surgical excision with clear margins, the patient continued heatapplication postoperatively for pain relief. Two years later, he developed a massive local recurrence with bone invasion, leadingto a fatal outcome. This case highlights the critical importance of permanent cessation of the thermal source, not only forprevention but as a cornerstone of management to avoid fatal recurrences in heat-induced malignancies.

Keywords: Chronic heat exposure. Erythema ab igne. Malignant transformation. Recurrence. Squamous cell carcinoma.