Occupational exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is specifically associated with which rare hepatic tumour?

• A Hepatocellular carcinoma
• B Cholangiocarcinoma
• C Hepatic angiosarcoma (haemangiosarcoma) ✓
• D Hepatic adenoma

Explanation

Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), used in PVC manufacture, is the classic occupational cause of hepatic angiosarcoma (also called haemangiosarcoma of the liver) — a rare malignant tumour of hepatic vascular endothelium. Workers exposed to VCM also develop acro-osteolysis (bone resorption of distal phalanges) and Raynaud's phenomenon. Aflatoxin and hepatitis B/C are the main causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. Thorotrast (thorium dioxide) is another rare cause of hepatic angiosarcoma.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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