Localized cutaneous argyria: Review of a rare clinical mimicker of melanocytic lesions

Localized argyria with pseudo‐ochronosis: A report of two cases highlighting involvement of elastic fibers

“…With immunohistochemistry staining, the dendritic melanocytes in blue nevi stain positive for S100, HMB45, and SOX10 11 . These melanocyte markers will also distinguish dermal melanosis from localized argyria 12 . Excluding a melanocytic lesion, especially in patients with relevant occupational/exposure history, argyria must be considered in the differential.…”

“…These two cases highlight the prominent pseudo‐ochronosis‐type alterations that may affect elastic fibers in localized argyria, in addition to the collagen fibers initially reported. Because the thin elastic fibers may simulate dendritic melanocytes and the clinical lesion may simulate a blue nevus, awareness of this presentation will help dermatopathologists avoid making an erroneous diagnosis of a melanocytic proliferation, especially since the patient and clinician may be unaware of silver exposure 12 …”

“…11 These melanocyte markers will also distinguish dermal melanosis from localized argyria. 12 Excluding a melanocytic lesion, especially in patients with relevant occupational/ F I G U R E 4 Case 2 biopsy from the dorsal foot shows changes of localized argyria with pseudo-ochronosis features. There are numerous yellow-brown colored fibers in the upper dermis.…”

“…Because the thin elastic fibers may simulate dendritic melanocytes and the clinical lesion may simulate a blue nevus, awareness of this presentation will help dermatopathologists avoid making an erroneous diagnosis of a melanocytic proliferation, especially since the patient and clinician may be unaware of silver exposure. 12…”

Localized Cutaneous Argyria at the Site of a Prior Melanoma Excision Confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy With Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis

“…It is associated with individuals who have regular exposure to silver particles, such as silversmiths, welders, or those with exposure through acupuncture needles, silver earrings, and application of silver nitrate, silver-coated dressings, or silver sulfadiazine creams. 1,2 Silver has been used for its antimicrobial properties for centuries and is commonly found in over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and medical devices. Silver is active against several bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic streptococci, and generally against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli.…”