Squamous-cell carcinoma due to mesh infection after umbilical hernia operation: third case of the literature

Abstract

Introduction

Polypropylene (PP) meshes are safe synthetic products used for hernia repairs and associated with minimal complication. Chronic inflammation is thought to play a pathophysiological role in the development of cancer.

Case presentation: We present a 67-year-old female case of squamous cell-cancer (SCC) that developed due to mesh after umbilical hernia operation. The mass in the anterior abdominal wall was totally resected. Pathology was reported as T2N0, moderately differentiated acantholytic type SCC. No recurrence or complication was detected in the fourth-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Cancer development after mesh is very rare and our case is the third case in the literature. Cancer development should be kept in mind in patients presenting with ulcerated masses if do not regress with infection treatment after mesh application.