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Related Experiment Videos

Palladium causes bizarre skin hyperpigmentation in long-term dihydrocodeinone 'Braun' abusers.

M Arenbergerova1, P Arenberger1, S Gkalpakiotis1

  • 1Department of Dermatovenereology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic.

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV
|September 9, 2019
PubMed
Summary

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Long-term abuse of the illegal drug dihydrocodeinone ("Braun") causes dark skin hyperpigmentation due to palladium accumulation. This study details the dermatologic effects and cellular changes observed in long-term users.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Toxicology
  • Materials Science

Background:

  • 'Braun' is an illicit injectable dihydrocodeinone mixture derived from semi-synthetic opioids.
  • Preparation involves palladium-catalyzed hydrogenation of codeine-containing tablets, introducing a toxic metal contaminant.

Observation:

  • Two long-term 'Braun' abusers presented with generalized, diffuse dark blue-grey skin hyperpigmentation.
  • Histopathological examination revealed abnormal cells with intracytoplasmic granular material in the papillary dermis.
  • Ultrastructural analysis showed this material accumulated in macrophages, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells.

Findings:

  • Palladium contamination was confirmed via X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, showing elevated levels in patient skin.
  • The granular material observed in dermal cells is linked to palladium accumulation.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Dihydrocodeinone abuse leads to significant dermal cellular changes and hyperpigmentation.

    • Implications:

    • This research highlights the severe dermatologic consequences of abusing palladium-contaminated opioids.
    • Understanding these effects is crucial for clinical diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse patients.
    • Further investigation into the long-term health impacts of heavy metal contamination in illicit drugs is warranted.