[Squamous epithelial carcinoma of the tongue after occupational exposure to chromium VI compounds].

BACKGROUND

The major key risk factors of head and neck cancer are chronic alcohol and tobacco consumption. There ist further increasing evidence that exposure to hazardous occupational agents increases the cancer risk substantially.

CASE REPORT

By means of a case report and an overview of the literature, the role of occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium compounds as a risk factor of head and neck cancer is analysed.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The mechanisms of chromium carcinogenesis are outlined. Possible interactions of life-style factors and occupational factors which may influence the cancer risk in a synergistic manner are also discussed. Critical analysis of the literature provides evidence of a possible role of occupational exposition to hexavalent chromium compounds as a risk factor for oral squamous cell cancer.