Arsenic in Dermatology

Dermatol Surg. 1996 Mar;22(3):301-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.1996.tb00322.x.

Abstract

Background: Arsenic is a chemical carcinogen that exists naturally and in the workplace.

Objectives: Review exposure, clinical signs of arsenic exposure, and the carcinogenic potential.

Method: Review of literature.

Results: Arsenic is a known carcinogen that occurs both naturally and in the workplace. It causes cutaneous malignancies, hyperpigmentation, palmer and plantar keratosis, and internal malignancies, especially of the lung and bladder.

Conclusion: Exposure risks need to be well publicized. Those people with known exposure need regular full skin exams as well as close follow-up by their primary care physician.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arsenic / adverse effects*
  • Arsenic Poisoning
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / chemically induced*
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Humans
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Poisoning / complications
  • Skin Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Skin Pigmentation / drug effects

Substances

  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Arsenic