Wartime toxin exposure: recognising the silent killer

BMJ Case Rep. 2016 Dec 1:2016:bcr2016217438. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-217438.

Abstract

Wartime toxin exposures have been implicated in the genesis of malignancy in war veterans. Agent Orange, one toxin among many, has been linked to malignancy and the subcomponent phenoxyacetic acid has been associated with soft tissue sarcomas (STSs). This case demonstrates the association between a wartime toxin exposure (Agent Orange) and subsequent cancer development. Ultimately, we aim to highlight the importance of simple, specific questions in the patient history to account for previous wartime toxin exposures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic Acid / poisoning*
  • 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid / poisoning*
  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Agent Orange
  • Chemical Warfare*
  • Defoliants, Chemical / poisoning*
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking*
  • Middle Aged
  • Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins / poisoning*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Sarcoma / chemically induced*
  • Veterans*
  • Vietnam Conflict*

Substances

  • Defoliants, Chemical
  • Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins
  • 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
  • Agent Orange
  • 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic Acid