Overview
Marjolin’s ulcer is a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer that develops in chronic wounds, burns, or scars. In Korea, dermatology and surgical oncology centers provide advanced care, including early detection, surgical excision, and reconstructive procedures.
What is Marjolin’s Ulcer?
Marjolin’s ulcer is a malignant transformation of previously injured or chronically inflamed skin, most commonly developing decades after the original injury. It usually presents as squamous cell carcinoma and can affect adults of any age with a history of severe skin trauma.
Symptoms
- Non-healing ulcer or wound on previously injured skin
- Raised or nodular lesion within a scar
- Pain or tenderness around the lesion
- Bleeding or discharge from the ulcer
- Rapid growth after long latency period
- Hard or thickened skin at the affected site
Causes
- Chronic inflammation or irritation in scar tissue
- Burn wounds, old traumatic injuries, or pressure sores
- Repeated trauma or infection in the area
- Genetic susceptibility and immune response variations
Risk Factors
- History of burns or chronic skin injuries
- Long-standing scars or ulcers
- Recurrent infections in the affected area
- Delayed treatment of chronic wounds
- Immunocompromised status
Complications
- Local tissue destruction
- Invasion into underlying muscles, tendons, or bone
- Lymph node metastasis in advanced cases
- Recurrence after incomplete surgical removal
- Impaired mobility or function depending on location
Prevention
- Proper wound care and monitoring of chronic scars
- Regular dermatologic check-ups for long-standing wounds
- Early treatment of infections or ulcerations
- Avoidance of repeated trauma to scars
- Education on warning signs of malignant transformation
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Biopsy of the lesion to confirm malignancy
- Imaging (MRI, CT scan) to assess the depth and spread
- Lymph node evaluation for metastasis
- Clinical examination and history of chronic injury
Medical & Surgical Treatments
- Wide local excision to remove cancerous tissue
- Skin grafting or reconstructive surgery to restore function and appearance
- Radiotherapy in inoperable or high-risk cases
- Chemotherapy for metastatic disease
- Regular follow-up to monitor for recurrence
Rehabilitation and Support
- Physical therapy after surgery to restore mobility
- Pain management and wound care support
- Counseling for psychological impact of chronic wounds and cancer
- Patient education on self-monitoring for recurrence
