Long-term effect of silver powder in vivo

The cytotoxicity of silver is a known property of this metal. Interestingly, in the cases of argyria and tattoos, Ag remains in the tissue for a long time without causing harm to the host except pigmentation. To understand these contradictions, pure silver implantation by an original subcutaneous injection method was performed. Two sizes of silver powder particles were implanted subcutaneously: 100 nm (P-silver) and the maximum 45 microm (G-silver). The sulfuration of silver and histopathologic changes were observed for a year. Results were as follows: silver affected the host in the case of P-silver to a greater extent than in G-silver, especially on the 7th day and after 2-4 weeks. Nonetheless, the effect of silver weakened at 12 months after implantation. The presence of P-silver caused various histological reactions, while the decline of silver effect on the host was correlated with an increase in the sulfuration of silver.