Abstract

Jayakar Thomas*, Bhairavi Mathu and Jasim Rahim

ABSTRACT

Arsenicosis should be considered in the dermatologic patient presenting with leukomelanoderma, punctate palmar keratoses and/or numerous non-melanoma skin cancers at a relatively young age. Arsenic ingestion is an important public heath issue that should not be overlooked. The possible sources of arsenic vary in different localities. Agricultural workers may be exposed to arsenic salts used as a fungicide, weedkiller, sheep dip or pesticide, and they frequently take inadequate precautions against accidental ingestion or inhalation. It may be a hazard in smelting and other industrial processes. In some countries, notably parts of Argentina, Bangladesh and Taiwan, the water supply has been contaminated.[1]