Multiple carcinomas in the hemodialysis access induced ischemic hand of a renal transplant patient

Long term immunosuppression following organ transplantation promotes the onset of skin cancers. A renal transplant patient developed multiple hyperkeratotic nodi in the left hand and digital pain following prolonged immunosuppression. Several skin abnormalities were observed in an ischemic and atrophic left hand in the presence of a patent Cimino-Brescia arteriovenous fistula previously used for hemodialysis. Severe hand ischemia was confirmed by digital plethysmography. Pathological examination of all 7 excised skin lesions indicated manifestations of well differentiated squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). Severe loco-regional ischemia due to an intact hemodialysis access may enhance the toxic effects of chronic immunosuppressive medication. Oxidative stress may act as a co-carcinogenic factor for the development of SCC in renal transplant patients receiving immunosuppressive agents.