Argyria is a condition caused by excessive exposure to silver, either through ingestion or contact. It results in a blue-gray discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes due to the deposition of silver in the body's tissues. Symptoms are exacerbated when sunlight oxidizes the deposited silver. The discoloration is usually permanent and can resemble an "all over tattoo". Diagnosis involves fluorescent x-ray examination, skin biopsy, or medical history. While there is no genetic predisposition, factors like low vitamin E or selenium levels may contribute. Outcomes are typically irreversible, though hydroquinone lotions or laser treatments can help remove pigmented skin cells in some cases.
2. What is Argyria? ๏ฌ Caused by a chemical
exposure to silver
(through ingestion or
exposure)
๏ฌ Binds with the cells usually
binding to selenium molecules
๏ฌ Symptoms exacerbate when
sunlight oxidizes the silver
๏ฌ May stimulate pigment
production
๏ฌ Much like an โall over tattooโ
๏ฌ Can develop small amounts
from procedures such as
accupuncture.
3. Signs and
Symptoms
โข Staining of the gums and
mucosal layers
โข Gray-black staining of the skin
(can be extensive or minute)
โข Some believe there is tissue
damage but there is not
enough research to confirm
this
5. Is there a Genetic
Disposition?
โขNo genetic disposition however
there are other factors that may
contribute to this process.
โขLow Vitamin E and Selenium.
โขPeople with slower metabolisms
โขThe use of certain remedies
passed down from family
member.
6. Expected
Outcomes?
โขMost of the time it is
irreversible depending on
the severity of symptoms
โขUse of Hydroquinone (
a skin lotion )
โขUse of Lasers to remove
pigmented skin/cells
7. Nursing
Implications
โขThorough Medical history
โขProper nutrition
โขInstruct patient about the use of
sunscreen
โขEducate patient about the side
effects related to the use of
certain CAM
โขTeach patient coping skills to deal
with body image changes
โขRefer patients to Support Groups
โขEducate patient about the
disease and its course
8. References
Unknown. (2007, December 22). Argyria cured [Online forum comment]. Retrieved from
http://www.indiadivine.org/audarya/ayurveda-health-wellbeing/1042014-argyria-cured-
curing-
Padelwaski, K. (2011, August 12). Argyia. Retrieved from /emedicine.medscape.com/article/1069121-
overview
Chang, H. S., Han, T. Y., Lee, H. K., & Son, S.-J. (2011). Successful treatment ofargyriausing a low-
fluenceQ-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser.International Journal of Dermatology, 50(6), 751+.
Silver nitrate: argyria in an elderly patient: case report. (2009, May 16). Reactions Weekly, (1252), 38.