The WHO guideline value for arsenic in drinking water is 10 μg/L. Chronic arsenic poisoning from drinking water primarily causes which skin manifestation?
- A Hyperpigmentation and keratosis (arsenical keratosis) ✓
- B Depigmentation (leucoderma)
- C Purpuric rash on palms and soles
- D Thickening of the nails with transverse white bands (Mees' lines) only
Correct answer: A. Hyperpigmentation and keratosis (arsenical keratosis)
Explanation
Chronic arsenicosis from contaminated drinking water (endemic in West Bengal, Bangladesh, and other arsenic-belt regions) characteristically produces: diffuse melanosis (rain-drop pigmentation, particularly on trunk), palmoplantar keratosis (arsenical keratosis), and Mees' lines in nails. These skin changes are pathognomonic. Long-term exposure also causes Bowen's disease, peripheral vascular disease (blackfoot disease) and internal malignancies.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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