Argyria

Definition

Definition of Argyria
Argyria is a condition caused by improper exposure to chemical forms of the element silver, silver dust, or silver compounds. The most dramatic symptom of argyria is that the skin becomes blue or bluish-grey colored. Argyria may be found as generalized argyria or local argyria. Argyrosis is the corresponding condition related to the eye.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Argyria

1. Staining of the gums that extends to skin of hands, forehead and nose, where the area exposed to the sun the most.
2. Skin becomes blue or bluish-grey colored

Causes

Causes of Argyria

1. Silver metal workers, those working in silver manufacturing factories, those who mine the silver metal and individuals who take silver containing supplements can develop argyria.
2. Silver sutures used for surgeries, dental procedures and silver dental fillings are significant causes for the development of argyria as well.
3. Once the disorder develops, the bluish discoloration of the skin is relatively diffuse, and will be first noted on areas of the skin that have received the exposure. After the skin is affected, the silver tends to affect the viscera r the internal organs as well.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Argyria
Argyria is diagnosed by taking a detailed medical history and by conducting an examination of the blue-grey patches under fluorescent x ray. Biopsy of the skin tissue at sites that appear argyria-afflicted may also demonstrate evidence of excessive silver. Normally, humans have approximately 1 milligram of silver in their bodies, argyria occurs when 4 grams of silver has accumulated within the body. However, it is commoner for people to have 20 - 40 grams of silver in the body, before exhibiting symptoms of argyria.

Treatment

Treatment of Argyria
The treatment plan for argyria focuses on ending the undue exposure to silver. Continued exposure can lead to severe complications. Your doctor will recommend a topical hydroquinone ointment that minimizes the bluish discoloration. Some doctors advocate laser surgery.

• Patients suffering from argyria are advised to use sun screen to block out too much sun exposure. In view of the fact that, there are few treatments for argyria, the spotlight is always on preventing the disease.
• Protective gear must be worn by workers in the silver factories to ward off occupational exposure to silver and its chemical forms.
• Indeed, in the developed nations, argyria is somewhat rare; as long as, people do not take silver containing supplements on a regular basis.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Argyria
The prognosis for argyria is relatively poor, considering that there is no successful cure for the condition.

Prevention

Prevention of Argyria
To prevent further exposure stop ingestion or application of all silver containing remedies. Protective wear can be used to prevent occupational exposure. Sunscreens may be helpful in preventing further darkening and discolouration. Cosmetic camouflage may be useful in disguising the appearance.