Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
06:15
Anterior High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Published on: August 9, 2024
Subungual carcinomas in multiple digits
1Integris Baptist Medical Center of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73112, USA.
The Journal of Hand Surgery, European Volume
|October 24, 2007
Summary
A patient developed subungual squamous cell carcinoma in multiple digits, linked to occupational exposure to stagnant wastewater and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This case highlights a potential occupational risk for HPV-associated skin cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Virology
Background:
- Subungual squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare malignancy affecting the nail unit.
- Occupational exposures are increasingly recognized as potential risk factors for various cancers.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known oncogenic virus implicated in several epithelial cancers.
Observation:
- A patient with a 22-year career in wastewater management presented with subungual SCC in multiple digits.
- The patient reported daily hand contact with stagnant wastewater.
- Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive staining for HPV within the tumor tissue.
Findings:
- The presence of HPV in subungual SCC suggests a potential etiological role for the virus in this specific presentation.
- The patient's occupation involving prolonged contact with wastewater represents a unique exposure scenario.
- Multifocal occurrence of the cancer points towards a systemic or widespread localized risk factor.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering occupational exposures in the etiology of rare skin cancers.
- Further research is warranted to investigate the link between wastewater exposure, HPV infection, and the development of subungual SCC.
- Preventive measures and awareness among workers in similar occupations may be necessary to mitigate cancer risk.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
01:31Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Definition A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a chronic, non-healing wound that develops in individuals with diabetes. It typically occurs on pressure-bearing areas such as the heel, metatarsal heads, or hallux, and carries a high risk of infection and amputation.Pathophysiology • The development of DFUs can be explained by four interconnected mechanisms: neuropathy, ischemia, infection, and impaired wound healing. • Neuropathy is the most common factor. Sensory neuropathy reduces pain perception,...