CASE REPORT Successful Breast Reconstruction in a Patient With Epidermolysis Bullosa

OBJECTIVES Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare skin disorder characterized by blister formation in response to minor trauma as well as extracutaneous manifestations. Details of the surgical history and technical considerations for performing breast reconstruction in a patient with epidermolysis bullosa are discussed. METHOD The history and details of breast reconstruction in a patient with epidermolysis bullosa are reported. RESULT A 56-year-old patient with junctional epidermolysis bullosa developed left breast cancer, which was initially treated with lumpectomy. Two years later, a completion total mastectomy was performed for recurrent disease with immediate 2-stage implant-based reconstruction. Nipple reconstruction was completed using a skate flap technique with full-thickness skin graft harvested from the groin region. No blistering, infection, or wound dehiscence was observed. CONCLUSIONS Successful immediate implant breast reconstruction is feasible in patients with epidermolysis bullosa. Reconstructive decision-making should be individualized based on the extent and severity of the skin disease.