Argyria: clinical implications of exposure to silver nitrate and silver oxide

J Occup Med. 1979 Jun;21(6):430-5.

Abstract

This article reports the clinical findings in a work force of 30 individuals who were exposed to silver nitrate and silver oxide. Six individuals had argyria and 20 had argyrosis (deposition of silver in the eye). Measurements of blood silver levels were included as part of the examination. The results of this examination generally support the benign nature of argyria, although the question of silver causing a decrement in kidney function and night vision is not settled. Periodic slit lamp examinations as well as monitoring of silver air concentrations are necessary to assure that engineering controls are actually limiting worker exposure to silver.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Argyria / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney / physiopathology
  • Kidney Function Tests
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Oxides / adverse effects*
  • Pigmentation Disorders / chemically induced
  • Silver / adverse effects*
  • Silver Nitrate / adverse effects*
  • Vision Disorders / chemically induced

Substances

  • Oxides
  • Silver
  • Silver Nitrate