Arsenical keratosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Arsenical keratosis
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hyperkeratosis on palms and soles
Complications	Skin cancer
Onset	Months to years after exposure
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Arsenic exposure
Risks	Occupational exposure, contaminated water
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Callus, psoriasis, eczema
Prevention	Avoidance of arsenic exposure
Treatment	Topical treatments, cryotherapy, laser therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, risk of malignancy
Frequency	Common in areas with high arsenic exposure
Deaths	N/A

A skin condition caused by chronic arsenic exposure

Arsenical keratosis

Arsenical keratosis on the palms of a patient

Arsenical keratosis is a dermatological condition characterized by the development of small, corn-like growths on the skin, primarily on the palms and soles. These lesions are a result of chronic exposure to arsenic, a toxic metalloid that can be found in contaminated water, certain pesticides, and industrial processes.

Pathophysiology

Arsenical keratosis occurs due to the accumulation of arsenic in the skin over time. Arsenic interferes with cellular processes, leading to hyperkeratosis, which is the thickening of the outer layer of the skin. This condition is often associated with long-term exposure to arsenic, which can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal contact.

Clinical presentation

Patients with arsenical keratosis typically present with multiple, small, hard, and scaly lesions on the palms and soles. These lesions may be skin-colored or slightly pigmented. Over time, they can become more pronounced and may coalesce into larger plaques. In some cases, arsenical keratosis can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of arsenical keratosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions and a history of arsenic exposure. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy. Laboratory tests can also be conducted to measure arsenic levels in the body.

Treatment

The primary treatment for arsenical keratosis involves the removal of the source of arsenic exposure. Topical treatments, such as keratolytic agents, can be used to reduce the thickness of the lesions. In some cases, surgical removal or laser therapy may be necessary. Regular monitoring is important to detect any malignant transformation early.

Prevention

Preventing arsenical keratosis involves reducing exposure to arsenic. This can be achieved by ensuring access to clean drinking water, using protective equipment in industrial settings, and avoiding the use of arsenic-containing pesticides.

See also

• Arsenic poisoning
• Hyperkeratosis
• Squamous cell carcinoma