Korean J Dermatol.  2007 May;45(5):524-527.

An Occupational Chrome Ulcer

• Won TH
• Kim HD
• Seo PS
• Yoon NH
• Park SD

Abstract

Chrome may have a corrosive, necrotizing effect on tissue, so repeated skin contact to chromate might induce perforations or ulcers on the skin. This condition is called a "chrome ulcer" or "chrome hole". It appears as a small, punched-out mark with a rolled-out border. It is rarely associated with pain, but a severe itching sensation is common. We report a case of a 33-year-old man who presented with a 3 month history of several ulcers on his abdomen. He was employed at a chromate alloying process. He had several hole-like atrophic scars and unbearable pruritus. After changing his occupation, plus treatment with oral corticosteroids and antihistamines, the lesions were healed and the itching sensation faded away. However, atrophic scarring remained.

Keyword

Chrome ulcer

MeSH Terms

Abdomen
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Adult
Cicatrix
Histamine Antagonists
Humans
Occupations
Pruritus
Sensation
Skin
Ulcer*
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Histamine Antagonists