Speckled pigmentation and palmoplantar keratoses leading to the mass detection of chronic arsenic poisoning.
- Author:
Sheena Maureen T. SY
1
;
Charissa Mia SALUD-GNILO
1
;
Ella Joy NOGAS-PEREZ
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case Reports
- Keywords: Hyperkeratotic papules; Chelation
- MeSH: Arsenic Poisoning; Philippines; Keratoderma, Palmoplantar
- From: Acta Medica Philippina 2017;51(2):146-149
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Arsenic is a known human carcinogen and skin manifestations are the earliest and most specific markers of chronic arsenic poisoning. A 43-year-old man from Luzon presented at the Section of Dermatology with a one-year history of hyperkeratotic papules and plaques on the palms and soles. Numerous round hypopigmented macules were scattered on the upper back. Initial 24-hour urine arsenic level was elevated at 288mcg/liter. The patient underwent successful chelation with N-acetylpenicillamine and the palmoplantar keratoses were treated with cryotherapy and topical 20% salicylic acid in white petrolatum. In cooperation with the Department of Health, a comprehensive health and environmental assessment was conducted in the affected communities. This case highlights the role of dermatologists in the diagnosis and management of this public health problem.
- Full text:619-Article Text-2392-1-10-20191127.pdf