Occasionally, a dermatologist providing Laser Therapy in Chevy Chase MD for skin problems may receive an unusual request. An example is a patient who has developed skin discoloration from consuming colloidal silver, a questionable alternative remedy that can cause the skin to turn bluish-gray. That effect is permanent unless the person can find an effective cosmetic treatment.
About Argyria
The skin discoloration caused by consuming colloidal silver is medically known as argyria. Silver is deposited in the skin cells. Research has found no biological use for colloidal silver, but some individuals believe it can prevent and cure a broad range of diseases. The condition only develops after exposure to ultraviolet light, so people most commonly have this discoloration in their facial skin, hands and arms.
The depositing of silver particles in skin cells is not dangerous and is not considered a disease or a health problem. It can, however, be a substantial cosmetic issue as a pigmentation disorder. Most people never take alternative medication or supplements containing silver, at least not regularly, so the condition is rare. Anyone who has developed argyria may want to contact a dermatologist providing Laser Therapy in Chevy Chase MD to see if this treatment might help.
A low concentration of silver in the human body is normal since the metal is so prevalent in the environment and many people wear silver jewelry. Ingesting colloidal silver, however, raises the amount of this metal in the body to a degree in which it reacts by transferring it to skin cells.
Relevant Research
A study published in the Annals of Dermatology found that some dermatology patients experienced significant improvement in their skin color after receiving laser therapy. In fact, some experienced a complete reversal of the condition.
A systematic review of the research on laser therapy for argyria was published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. Because so few people ever develop this skin disorder, the review was only able to look at six studies. Nevertheless, the authors concluded that laser therapy is effective for minimizing or resolving the discoloration. Anyone seeking help may contact a clinic such as Tamjidi Skin Institute.
