Silver in Healthcare

This book provides a detailed examination of silver's historical and clinical significance in medicine, emphasizing its antimicrobial properties and safety concerns.

In Silver in Healthcare, Dr. Lansdown offers a thorough exploration of the historical and contemporary roles of silver in medicine. The book delves into its clinical benefits as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, tracing its evolution from early uses in surgical applications to its current applications in antiseptic wound dressings, sutures, and various medical devices. With a strong foundation in microbiology since the 1880s, the text highlights silver's ongoing relevance in modern healthcare, including its role in water purification and infection control in hospital settings.

The publication also addresses the significant advancements in understanding the mechanisms of silver's antimicrobial action, focusing on ionization patterns and the genetic profiles associated with silver resistance. Dr. Lansdown meticulously reviews the existing literature, shedding light on common misconceptions regarding silver's safety and its toxicological aspects. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between actual toxicity and misunderstood phenomena like argyria and argyrosis, which are often incorrectly associated with silver exposure.

Silver in Healthcare serves as an essential resource for clinicians, research scientists, and product manufacturers. It not only discusses the clinical implications of silver use but also points out deficiencies in current practices regarding the evaluation of antimicrobial resistance. The book is written in an accessible manner, making it suitable for research students interested in metal toxicity and its implications in mammalian tissues, while also providing a wealth of information for those engaged in new research endeavors.