McTighe SP, Taylor EA, Allbritton J, Lewin-Smith MR. Localized Cutaneous Argyria at the Site of a Prior Melanoma Excision Confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy With Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis.
Am J Dermatopathol 2024;
46:155-158. [PMID:
38153266 DOI:
10.1097/dad.0000000000002610]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Localized cutaneous argyria is a rare condition caused by the accumulation of silver particles in the skin, leading to blue-gray discoloration. Argyria may mimic melanoma and lead to misdiagnosis. We present a patient with a history of melanoma that developed a blue-gray nodule at a prior melanoma graft. The diagnosis was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis. These techniques differentiate argyria from melanoma and can be performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, tissue sections. Health care providers should be alert that argyria may mimic recurrent melanoma in patients unaware of silver exposure.
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