Multiple Dorsal Hand Actinic Keratoses and Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Unique Presentation following Extensive UV Nail Lamp Use

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer worldwide, and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is a major cause of SCC. UV nail lamps can be used for drying and hardening acrylic or gel nail polish. We report a case of a 52-year-old Caucasian woman with an 18-year history of UV nail lamp use every 3 weeks and an 18-year history of weekly tanning bed use who presented with over 25 actinic keratoses and two SCC in situ on her dorsal hands. Of note, this patient has never had any previous biopsies, skin cancer or precancers, or skin cancer or precancer treatment at any time in the past and on skin examination had no precancers or cancers elsewhere on her body. We also review the existing research regarding nail lamp use, which overall suggests that the risk of carcinogenesis is low, and discuss ways dermatologists can educate patients regarding proper UV nail lamp use to minimize risks. This patient's extensive UV nail lamp use coupled with UVA exposure from tanning beds may have put her at particular risk and exacerbated the effects of the nail lamp alone.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the dorsal hands and feet after repeated exposure to ultraviolet nail lamps

“…Although rare, three previous cases of SCC developing after frequent UV nail lamp usage have been reported, most recently in 2019 [7,8]. Our patient is an important addition to the literature.…”

“…A more recent case was reported in 2019 of a woman who had an 18-year history of utilizing UV nail lamps every three weeks. She developed over 25 actinic keratoses on her dorsal hands with two SCCs in situ [8].…”

Ultraviolet Nail Lamps and Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Cause and Effect, or Not?—A Case Report

“…Ratycz' 2019 case report described a patient with SCC on bilateral dorsal hands [14]. The patient had an 18-year history of UV light exposure at a nail salon.…”

Effectiveness of hand disinfection depending on the type of nail plate coating – a study among nurses working in a specialist hospital

“…Autorzy różnych badań wskazują wiele powikłań związanych ze stosowaniem paznokci żelowych, w tym pterygium inversum unguis (PIU) polegające na nieprawidłowym przyleganiu hyponychium do brzusznej powierzchni paznokcia po kilku latach ich stosowania [13][14][15]. Pojawiają się również doniesienia o rosnącym ryzyku wystąpienia raka skóry ze względu na stosowanie lamp emitujących UVA podczas suszenia i utwardzania lakieru akrylowego lub żelowego [16,17].…”