Multiple basal cell carcinomas after long-term exposure to hydrazine: case report and review of the literature

Dermatology. 2010;221(4):300-2. doi: 10.1159/000321338. Epub 2010 Nov 22.

Abstract

Hydrazine (N(2)H(4)) is a clear, inorganic colourless liquid. It is known to be a skin sensitizer, a corrosive agent and it causes dermatitis on contact. Hydrazine is employed in chemical plants, used as a corrosion inhibitor for feed waters and may be added to rocket fuels. The authors report the case of a 68-year-old man with multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) covering his arms and face. The patient worked in a steam power plant with extensive exposure to hydrazine for a period of over 10 years. The present case report strongly suggests that there may be a correlation between the long-term exposure to hydrazine and an increased risk for multiple BCCs.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arm
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / chemically induced
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / surgery
  • Face
  • Hamartoma Syndrome, Multiple
  • Humans
  • Hydrazines / toxicity*
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Occupational Diseases / diagnosis
  • Occupational Diseases / surgery
  • Occupational Exposure*
  • Skin Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery

Substances

  • Hydrazines
  • hydrazine

Supplementary concepts

  • Basal cell carcinoma, multiple