Familial Primary Self-healing Squamous Epithelioma Of The Skin (ferguson Smith Type)
British Journal of Dermatology 62: Dec 1950; 485-490
View Original Source →Abstract
A case of spontaneous regression of malignancy has been presented which we believe fulfills the criteria set forth by Stewart. The diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma was made by several pathologists, on a histologic basis. Some of the probable factors responsible for this phenomenon have been mentioned. This patient is alive and well with no evidence of malignancy seven years after establishment of the diagnosis. No adequate reason can be suggested for his recovery.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
Mrs. A. A., aged 34, a healthy service woman of more than average intelligence
Clinical Characteristics
Lesions commencing as small pimples which enlarge to a size varying from a small pea to a marble, largest lesions on the left forearm, buttock and lower leg, smaller ones undergo spontaneous regression within a period of four months, multiple scars some from active interference, others from spontaneous regression, a small pigeon-pea-sized nodule on the edge of the right nostril near the site of an old scar, a firm nodule, 1 centimeter in diameter and 0.5 centimeter raised, with a central depression and showing some slight surrounding inflammatory reaction
Remission Characteristics
Spontaneous regression within a period of four months, deep pitted scars with irregular overhanging crenellated edges
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Not discussed
Clinical Treatment
Trichloracetic acid, surgical excision, coagulation diathermy
Additional Notes
The familial incidence is recorded and emphasized. The impossibility of early histological diagnosis is stressed. The patient preferred the lesion to be left untouched.