Korean J Occup Environ Med.
2008 Jun;20(2):147-152.
A Case of Epitheloid Sarcoma on Metal Cutoff Worker
- Affiliations
-
- 1Korea Safety &Health Agency, Occupational Safety &Health Research Institute, Korea. kobawoo@kosha.net
- 2Department of Industrial and Occupational Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Korea.
Abstract
-
BACKGROUND: Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare condition with many causative factors. However a soft tissue sarcoma from a metallic foreign body and injury is rare. We report a case of a soft tissue sarcoma caused by a metallic foreign body and injury.
CASE: The patient had been worked as a metal cutter for 17 years. While working, his palms were constantly pricked by small metallic splinters, which were generally removed after work. On march 2004, he had palpitated mass on his right palm. On November 2006, a right hand x-ray showed a mass and metallic foreign body at the 1st volar space which was confirmed to be an epitheloid sarcoma. All metallic products of his workplace contained chromium and Nickel. which are known to cause soft tissue sarcomas. A review of the literature revealed foreign-body and injury induced oxidative and nitrative stress to be associated with a developing sarcoma. In addition, Cr and Ni are associated with the development of sarcoma. Therefore it was concluded this case of epitheloid sarcoma was associated with his employment.
CONCLUSION
A soft-tissue sarcoma associated with a metal foreign-body and injury is rare and their relationship is difficult understand. If a case of sarcoma is encountered on a metal associated worker, their job association should be considered.
