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Related Concept Videos

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives01:14

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives

The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
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The color of the skin is influenced by a number of pigments, including melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin. Recall that melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are found scattered throughout the stratum basale of the epidermis. The melanin is transferred to the keratinocytes via melanosomes.
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Measurement of Heme Synthesis Levels in Mammalian Cells
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Published on: July 9, 2015

Blue lunulae: argyria and hypercopprecaemia.

Hassan Kalouche1, Alan Watson, Douglas Routley

  • 1Department of Dermatology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. kaloucheh@yahoo.com.au

The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|August 8, 2007
PubMed
Summary

Blue lunulae (nail discoloration) in a patient were linked to colloidal silver ingestion causing argyria and hypercopprecaemia. This case highlights risks associated with unregulated supplements and alternative medicines.

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Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Toxicology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Colloidal silver ingestion can lead to argyria, a condition characterized by skin and mucous membrane discoloration.
  • Hypercopprecaemia, or elevated copper levels, can have various causes and potential health implications.

Observation:

  • A 42-year-old woman presented with blue lunulae (half-moon shaped discoloration at the base of nails).
  • She had a history of regular, long-term ingestion of colloidal silver in water, leading to diagnosed argyria.
  • Elevated copper levels (hypercopprecaemia) were also noted, potentially contributing to nail discoloration.

Findings:

  • The patient's argyria was directly attributed to colloidal silver consumption.
  • The cause of hypercopprecaemia was uncertain, possibly due to copper-containing multivitamin supplements or an acute-phase reactant response.
  • Blue lunulae were observed as a manifestation of these systemic changes.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential health risks associated with unregulated supplements and alternative medicines, particularly colloidal silver.
  • Easy access and inadequate regulatory oversight for such products may lead to future occurrences of toxicity.
  • Clinicians should routinely inquire about the use of over-the-counter preparations and alternative therapies to identify potential exposures.