Carcinoma of the scrotum

Carcinoma of the scrotum

‘Chimney sweep’s cancer’ was the first reported occupational cancer (described by Percival Pott in 1775). It is a rare cancer that has also been seen in other workers who come into contact with oil and coal products. Animal studies suggest that aromatic cyclic hydrocarbons are the aetiological factor. Nowadays, this tumour is rarely associated with any obvious aetiological factor. The growth starts as a wart or ulcer ( Figure 86.20 grows it may involve the testis. The tumour should be excised with a margin of healthy skin. The management of the ingui nal nodes parallels the management of penile cancer, and nodal assessment, either with sentinel node biopsies or bilateral groin dissections, is indicated.