Korean J Dermatol.
2007 Dec;45(12):1322-1324.
A Case of Argyria
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. jylee@catholic.ac.kr
Abstract
- Argyria is a rare skin discoloration caused by the deposition of silver granules in the skin. We report a case of argyria occurring in a 46-year-old woman due to ingestion of colloidal silver solution over 2 years. She had a diffuse, slate gray discoloration on her face and hands. The biopsy specimen from the face revealed melanin hyperpigmentation in the epidermal basal layer. Numerous, round, tiny brown-black granules were deposited in the basement membrane surrounding eccrine glands. Silver solution is being advertised as a cure for a variety of diseases and is commercially available as a 'food supplement'. This case report highlights the potential risk of adverse effects following the use of food supplements.
