Drinking Silver: A Cause of Blue Skin Discoloration

The presence of a large amount of silver has been known to cause bluish gray skin discoloration in areas exposed to light, a condition known as argyria. This phenomenon is caused by photoactivation and metal reduction, which leads to the stimulation of melanin production.

Clinically, argyria can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarities with other conditions such as Addison's disease, hemochromatosis, methemoglobinemia, and pigmentation caused by other chemicals like gold, mercury, arsenic, bismuth, minocycline, antimalarials, amiodarone, chlorpromazine, quinacrine, or chemotherapy. A binding protein may be present in the body, which can accumulate a small amount of natural silver over time.

The accumulation of silver in the body can cause various health problems, including kidney failure, and it can also manifest as localized lesions on the cheek mucosa or systemic involvement affecting internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, and spleen. In some cases, argyria may affect the eyelids, lacrimal caruncle, semilunar fold, cornea, lens, vitreous humor, retina, and optic disc.

The conjunctival pigmentation caused by argyria is often bluish gray or dark brown, while the nails may take on a metallic appearance. In extreme cases, argyria can also affect the hair, causing it to take on a metallic look.

To develop argyria, an individual must ingest a total dose of 6 grams orally or 1 gram intravenously. Clinically, the condition is characterized by uniform blue or bluish-gray pigmentation of the skin, mucous membranes, and nails, which can be intensified by sunlight.

Generalized argyria occurs when there is an increase in serum silver levels secondary to prolonged ingestion of silver in its various forms. This rare condition was first described by Hill and Pillsbury in 1939, but it is thought to have disappeared due to the suspension of the use of silver in oral drugs. However, silver remains present in local antiseptics, nasal drops, dental materials, photographic material, absorbable sutures, powders used in jewelry, acupuncture needles, and supplements, which can penetrate the skin or respiratory tract.

In conclusion, drinking silver can lead to blue skin discoloration due to argyria. This condition is caused by photoactivation and metal reduction, leading to the stimulation of melanin production. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the potential risks associated with ingesting silver, as it can cause various health problems, including kidney failure and systemic involvement.

Drinking silver blue skin