A Case of Acral Metastatic Tumor Successfully Treated with Topical Heat Application by Disposable Chemical Pocket Warmers

Abstract

A 79-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma came to us presenting with a solid tumor on the tip of his right second finger. A histopathological investigation revealed this tumor to be skin metastasis. Topical heat application using disposable chemical pocket warmers was initiated. The tumor was responsive to this therapy, and diminished in size within two months. Though the incidence of acral metastases of internal malignancies is rare, topical heat application may he a good option of treatment. The heating effect of chemical pocket warmers was also studied by thermography. © 2001, Western Division of Japanese Dermatological Association. All rights reserved.