Severe generalized argyria secondary to ingestion of colloidal silver protein.
Argyria is a rare cause of cutaneous discolouration caused by silver deposition. We report a case of dramatic and diffuse argyria secondary to ingestion of colloidal silver protein over a 1-year period. Stained electron microscopy with spectral analysis was used to confirm the clinical diagnosis. Silver-protein complexes are deposited in the skin and reduced to inert silver salts by sunlight in a process similar to that harnessed in photography. Our patient had obtained the silver for consumption via mail order. It had been advertised as a cure for a variety of diseases. Colloidal silver protein is commercially available as a 'food supplement', hence circumventing the strict controls placed on medicines.
White
J M L
JM
Department of Dermatology, Ealing Hospital, London, UK. jonathanmlwhite@hotmail.com
Powell
A M
AM
Brady
K
K
Russell-Jones
R
R
D001129:Argyria / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000009:adverse effects; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012834:Silver / Q000009:adverse effects*
D012834:Silver