Arsenic in Dermatology

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.