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.

Arsenic Poisoning ; Philippines ; Keratoderma, Palmoplantar

Background: Health care associated infections (HCAI) lead to prolonged hospital stays, serious illnesses, and long-term disabilities, thereby become an economic burden to both patients and families. Substantial evidence demonstrated the effectiveness of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infection. Study results would help improve campaign practices among hospital staff to reduce HCAI, hospitalization costs and enhance safety among patients and health care workers Objective: This study determined the knowledge, perception and practices on hand hygiene among the health care workers of Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. Design: A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: There were 166 respondents. Majority (94.58%) had adequate knowledge, positive perception (98.80%) and correct practices (89.16%) on hand hygiene. Mean knowledge (p<0.01) scores were significantly higher for the resident physicians compared to other health care workers. However, mean practice scores were higher (p<0.01) for other health care workers compared to resident physicians. There was no significant difference on the mean perception score (p=0.59). Conclusion This study reflects a high level of awareness on hand hygiene among the health care workers in Southern Philippines Medical Center. This over-all good performance was attributed to daily campaign on hand hygiene heard on PA system, reminders posted on every working area, availability of alcohol- based hand rub, and on- the-spot hand hygiene performance which positively affects compliance to hand hygiene among HCWs of this Institution.
Knowledge ; Attitude ; Hand Hygiene ; Nurses