Widely metastatic squamous cell carcinoma originating from malignant transformation of hypertrophic lichen planus in a 24-year-old woman: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Hypertrophic lichen planus (HLP) is a T-cell-mediated process typically presenting with hypertrophic or verrucous plaques on the lower limbs. We report the case of a 24-year-old woman with a history of HLP since age 3 years presenting with rapid malignant transformation of one lesion into a large squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Subsequent examination revealed progressive, widespread metastatic involvement, and the patient ultimately died from her disease. SCC associated with HLP is rare, with a review of the literature revealing fewer than 50 cases. This case highlights the need to be aware of suspicious changes in HLP and to educate patients as to when to be reevaluated.