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Lasers trigger pigmentation from past gold therapy

Short-pulse lasers triggered chrysiasis more than 30 years after treatment in 2 patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • September 28, 2026

  • 3 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Lasers trigger pigmentation from past gold therapy

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionLaser-induced chrysiasis
Key MechanismsFragmentation of dermal gold particles through photoacoustic or photomechanical effects; alteration of light scattering; oxidation and redistribution of gold particles.
Target PopulationPatients with a history of gold salt therapy for rheumatoid arthritis.
Care SettingDermatology clinics

Key Highlights

  • Two patients developed laser-induced chrysiasis after gold salt therapy.
  • Histopathologic findings showed dermal metallic deposits.
  • A history of gold salt use is critical before laser treatments.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Consider a history of chrysotherapy in patients with blue-gray pigmentation.

Management

  • Consider treatment options for laser-induced chrysiasis.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor for treatment response and potential side effects.

Risks

  • Short- or ultrashort-pulse laser procedures may exacerbate pigmentation.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with a history of gold salt therapy experiencing pigmentation changes.

Treatment response can vary.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Obtain a thorough patient history regarding gold salt therapy before laser treatments.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Lasers trigger pigmentation from past gold therapy

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • September 28, 2026

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