Verruca Vulgaris and Radiation Exposure Are Associated with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Finger

BACKGROUND: Factors associated with the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the finger are verruca vulgaris, radiation exposure, burns, and arsenic ingestion. OBJECTIVES: We wish to further document the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) and roentgen exposure to squamous cell carcinoma of the finger. METHODS: A retrospective study of 32 cases of digital squamous cell carcinoma seen at UCLA Medical Center was performed. RESULTS: Ten patients (31%) had histories of verrucae at the site of the carcinoma. Eight patients (25%) had histories of x-ray therapy to the hand. CONCLUSION: Our study further supports the association of verruca vulgaris and radiation exposure in the development of squamous cell carcinoma of the finger.