Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) in the tropics: A case in Guinea with squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

XP is generally considered to be a very serious disease in the tropics due to its pronounced sensitivity to sunlight. A disabling condition, first described by Kaposi in 1870, remains very rare in black people. We report a case of squamous cell carcinoma arising from XP, which is rare in dermatological consultations in Guinea. An 11-year-old Guinean student presented with an ulcerative-crust nodule of the scalp that had been evolving for 2 months. He was from a 1st degree consanguineous marriage and had undergone unsuccessful medical and traditional consultations and treatments. Examination showed an ulcerative-crusty nodule on the left parietal area, hypo-hyperpigmented macules on the exposed areas, cheilitis and photophobia. The rest of the examination was normal. Skin histopathology confirmed squamous cell carcinoma, and the CT scan showed no metastatic lesions. Multidisciplinary management was proposed. The patient remains under medical supervision. Skin cancers occurring in XP patients can be prevented by applying photoprotection measures, and genetic counselling before consanguineous unions could also help prevention.