What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Conjunctival Argyrosis

What is Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva? (Definition/Background Information)

• Argyrosis refers to a condition that is caused by severe and prolonged exposure to the element silver and its compounds. This may be localized to a certain area/part of the body, or generalized, affecting the entire body. The condition is vividly characterized by the presence of blue-gray skin
• Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva is caused by the chronic exposure of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white region of the eye) to silver and silver compounds. This may be due to the use of certain eye cosmetics, topical eye applications, or via occupational exposure to silver dust
• The condition manifests as bluish-gray discoloration of the conjunctiva. It is mostly observed in children. A management of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva primarily involves immediately stopping any further exposure to silver

Who gets Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Individuals in any age category may be affected, although most cases are seen in children
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all races and ethnicity are prone to developing the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors reported for Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva include:

• Certain occupations that involve a higher use of silver such as photography, dentistry, jewelry making, tableware, electric and electronic works, and construction (metal coatings)
• Eye and eye lash cosmetics containing silver
• Use of topical eye medicines that contain silver

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva? (Etiology)

Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva develops from heavy and chronic exposure of the eye to silver compounds for a long period (often several years).

• Such an exposure results in the deposition of silver in the tissues of the eye (subconjunctival tissues)
• The condition may be mild or severe depending on several factors such as the exposure duration, specific type of silver compound one is exposed to, the form of exposure, and health status of the affected individual

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva?

The signs and symptoms of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva may differ from one individual to another, depending on the extent of silver deposition.

• The single-most characteristic sign of eye exposure is the presence of blue-grey eyes
• In many cases, other eye parts, such as the cornea, lacrimal sac, and lens may be affected
• Other systemic signs and symptoms may be present

How is Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva Diagnosed?

Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva may be diagnosed by the following observations and tests:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation (including evaluation of one’s occupation, eye medication use, etc.)
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• General eye exam
• Fundoscopic (ophthalmoscopic) examination by an eye specialist, who examines the back part of the eye (or the fundus)
• Visual acuity test using a special and standardized test chart (Snellen chart)
• Slit-lamp examination
• Gonioscopy, a painless eye exam using special devices
• Visual evoked potential (VEP) test

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva?

The complications of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva may include:

• Emotional stress
• Worsening of the eye condition on exposure continuation
• Vision loss
• Systemic complications from severe silver toxicity

How is Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva Treated?

Presently, there are no effective treatment measures for Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva to reverse the condition.

• The most important treatment measure is to immediately stop further exposure to silver compounds and prevent further exposure to the toxic substance
• This may include bringing about changes to one’s occupation, discontinuing the causative medication, or avoiding the use cosmetics containing silver and its compounds

How can Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva be Prevented?

Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva may be prevented by eliminating exposure to sources of silver where possible. The following points may be considered:

• Regularly shower and change clothes after industrial work. Avoid bringing home contaminated clothes from the work site
• Practice proper hand hygiene by washing hands with soap frequently (as required)
• Ensure that industrial safety regulations for metal/chemical exposure is adhered to at workplaces
• Use of respiratory masks, eye goggles, clothing to protect skin, etc. in an industrial setup
• Avoiding self-medication, especially with respect to the usage of certain solver-containing topical eye creams/medications
• Avoid eye cosmetics that increase one’s risk for silver exposure

What is the Prognosis of Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva is dependent upon the following factors:
• The age and health condition of the child/adult
• The time length and severity of exposure
• The form of exposure - whether inhaled, swallowed, or through contact
• The type of silver compound involved
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications. Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Argyrosis of the Conjunctiva:

Please visit our Eye & Vision Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vision-center/