Mercury pigmentation. An electron microscopic study

Occupational argyria; light and electron microscopic studies and X-ray microanalysis

“…It appears probable that our patients were exposed to the fumes of these metals while involved in the refining of the crude silver-containing ores. The ultrastructural localization of these additional elements was the same as silver and it is of interest that a similar localization has been described in a case of mercury pigmentation (Burge & Winkelmann, 1970). An ultrastructural and analytical electron microscopic study of a case of mercury pigmentation due to industrial exposure (Kennedy et al, 1977) found electron-dense 400-900 nm aggregates of 12 nm particles in dermal macrophages and free in the dermis.…”

Colors and Contact Dermatitis

“…84 Recurrent contact with mercury, either from medical preparations or after industrial exposure, can cause a gray-brown skin pigmentation. 85,86 A similar staining can follow exposure to several halogen derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons, such as dioxin (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin) and polychlorinated biphenyls. Clinical manifestations involve the face, neck, and dorsal aspect of the hands.…”

Cutaneous Deposits

“…Electron microscopy showed the granules to be small electron-dense particles appearing to aggregate into larger coarse granules with diameters up to 340 nm. 286 Mercury granulomas represent another manifestation of cutaneous mercury deposition. The causes may include accidental penetration as from a broken thermometer or from deliberate intradermal or subcutaneous injections.…”