Generalized argyria with low ceruloplasmin and copper levels in the serum. A case report with clinical and microscopical findings and a trial of penicillamine treatment

Abstract

This paper describes a 45-year-old man with generalized argyria and low ceruloplasmin and copper levels in the serum. During a trial of penicillamine treatment the urine excretion of silver rose markedly although after 6 months therapy no change in skin colour was noted. Light and electronmicroscopy of the skin both before and after penicillamine showed that silver particles were deposited especially in the basement membrane around eccrine sweat glands and elastic fibres of the papillary dermis. The epidermis and sebaceous glands were free from silver deposits.