Squamous Cell Carcinoma Associated with the Use of SkinLightening Cream

Abstract

Introduction: Skin-lightening cosmetics are widely used by both women and men worldwide. Skin cancer cases have also been linked to the use of
skin-lightening cosmetics we present the second case of epidermoid carcinoma associated with skin lightening in the Department of Dermatology at Bamako, Mali.

Observation: A 50-year-old Malian woman who had been using these products for 20 years. She presented with a budding ulceration on her left shoulder, which began as a keratotic nodule treated with liquid nitrogen but persisted and gradually expanded. Clinical examination revealed hyperpigmented spots on her face and a poikilodermic appearance on her trunk. The ulceration on her left shoulder, suspicious for SCC, prompted an excision with a 2 mm margin for histological examination. Further investigations showed lymphadenopathy in the left cervical, supraclavicular, and axillary regions. Pathological examination indicated the presence of malignant cells, suggesting secondary localization of carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.

Discussion: This case is the second reported instance of SCC associated with skin-lightening practices in Mali. The epidemiological profile aligns with previous cases, typically affecting middle-aged women who have practiced depigmentation for many years.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this case emphasizes the risks associated with skin-lightening cosmetics and the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms involved in skin cancer development in these cases.