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Age/sex: unknown
Size: 14.4 x 9.5 x 3.6 cm
The specimen consists of the right index figure with a large ulcer (arrow) at its base next to the thumb.
Carcinoma of finger
Two types of carcinoma鈥搒quamous and basal cell鈥揳re responsible for the vast majority of skin carcinomas (the exact type in this case was not specified). Both types grow slowly and are almost always localized to the site in which they arise (i.e., they do not spread (metastasize) elsewhere in the body). However, they can ulcerate and invade deep into the underlying tissue, as in this specimen. They are usually treated by curetting, freezing, electrodessication, or surgery.
Both squamous and basal cell carcinoma tend to arise on sun-exposed skin and ultraviolet radiation is considered to be an important causal factor. Carcinomas that arise in non-sun-exposed areas can have other causes. One example of this is squamous cell carcinoma of the scrotum. This was the first form of cancer clearly associated with occupational carcinogen exposure, as documented by the English surgeon Percivall Pott in London chimney sweeps in 1775.
Below: Watercolour drawing of a case of chimney sweep's cancer. Drawn by Horace Benge Dobell, physician, whilst a student at St Bartholomew's Hospital Medical School.
Source: Dobell, HB. Chimney sweep鈥檚 cancer. Wellcome Collection.
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