Successful treatment of argyria using a low-fluence Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Argyria is a rare skin disease caused by cutaneous deposits of silver granules as a result of exposure to silver substrates or ingestion of silver salt. This pigmentation change causes cosmetic problems, and there was previously no recognized effective treatments for argyria.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the treatment effect of a low-fluence Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser on argyria.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

Case report of a 49-year-old with a history of ingestion of a colloidal silver solution daily for approximately one year as a traditional remedy.

RESULTS:

After seven sessions of treatment, the patient's skin color returned to normal.

CONCLUSION:

A low-fluence Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser provided safe and effective treatment for the skin discoloration associated with argyria.

• Authors: Tae Young Han, Hee Sun Chang, Hyun Kyung Lee, Sook-Ja Son
• Journal: International journal of dermatology (Int J Dermatol) Vol. 50 Issue 6 Pg. 751-3 (Jun 2011) ISSN: 1365-4632 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21595676 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2011 The International Society of Dermatology.

Topics

• Argyria (pathology, radiotherapy)
• Facial Dermatoses (pathology, radiotherapy)
• Humans
• Lasers, Solid-State (therapeutic use)
• Low-Level Light Therapy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Treatment Outcome