Multiple Cutaneous Cancers in an Interventional Cardiologist: Predominance in Unprotected Skin Nearest the Radiation Source

A 70 year-old interventional cardiologist, who worked in the cardiac catheterization laboratory for >35 years, developed multiple skin cancers in regions not conventionally covered by protective lead apparel. The majority of lesions were left-sided, representing cutaneous regions in closest proximity to the radiation source. Although skin not covered by lead apparel often receives frequent sun exposure, a known risk factor for skin cancer, malignancies resulting exclusively from sun exposure would not in most cases be expected to have a left-sided predominance. Additional research is warranted to study the potential link between occupational radiation exposure and skin cancer risk. •Radiation exposure is inherent to procedures in the catheterization laboratory and poses occupational health hazards.•A prior study has demonstrated an association between occupational radiation exposure and skin lesions•All workers in the catheterization laboratory should take steps to minimize their occupational radiation exposure.