Sign of Leser-Trélat with an adenocarcinoma of the prostate: a case report

Abstract

Introduction

The sign of Leser-Trélat is defined by the sudden appearance and rapid increase in number and size of seborrheic keratoses, preceding or revealing a malignancy. Even though this sign remains controversial, it has been described during a wide range of malignancies, including mainly adenocarcinoma of the gastro-intestinal tract or the breast.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 68-year-old man who experienced sudden increased in number of seborrheic keratoses within two years prior to a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of the prostate. After prostatectomy, pigmented lesions stopped their brutal increase but did not regress.

Conclusion

This is the second case of adenocarcinoma of the prostate associated with the sign of Leser-Trélat. This report acts as a reminder that in case of Leser-Trélat sign, a complete physical examination is mandatory followed by specific complementary exams.