Severe exacerbation of multiple self-healing squamous epithelioma (Ferguson–Smith disease) with radiotherapy, which was successfully treated with acitretin

Abstract

We describe the challenging case of a patient presenting with extensive, eruptive mid-facial squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and keratoacanthomas (KAs) consequent to radiotherapy. Our patient had a personal and family history of multiple KAs and SCCs. Multiple self-healing squamous epithelioma, otherwise known as Ferguson-Smith disease, was diagnosed. This case presented a therapeutic challenge to preserve tissue and avoid severe facial disfigurement. We found oral acitretin to be the treatment of choice.