This book is a comprehensive, current and objective reference on colloidal silver. It is a thorough review of old and recent scientific and medical literature on the medical and toxicological aspects of silver colloids.

Silver in healthcare has many different facets and since the early concepts of microbiology of the 1880's, has been developed from usage in surgical clips, staples, foil wound dressings and surgical implants, to the widespread and clinically effective antiseptic wound dressings, sutures, catheters, bone and dental implants, and cardiovascular devices of today. From the dawn of human civilisation, silver has had a role of water purification and even now has a role in hospital water systems for control of MRSA and legionnaires disease. Biotechnological advances in recent years have extended the antimicrobial properties of silver into production of hygiene textiles and use in domestic products. Important advances have been made in understanding mechanisms of antimicrobial action of silver, the central importance of ionisation patterns in the presence of body fluids and secretion, and the genetical and molecular profiles of silver resistance. This publication is a comprehensive account of the history of silver in medicine, its clinical benefits and wide advantages as a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent. It is clear from the extensive array of publications in recognised and unofficial press, that many misconceptions and misleading conceptions have been perpetuated, leading to errors in evaluation of the safety of the metal in occupational, domestic and therapeutic situations. The book is unique in that it is the only comprehensive presentation of the toxicology of silver and it identifies the major misconceptions in the safety of silver and interpretation of argyria and argyrosis as central features of silver toxicity. In this book, Dr Lansdown reviews the literature from a clinical and experimental viewpoint, with the benefit of his many years research on silver and experience gained in working with clinicians, healthcare product manufacturers and microbiologists. There is also discussion in the book on the relevance of antimicrobial resistance to silver and deficiencies in present day clinical practice in not evaluating incidences of resistance on a routine basis. The subject matter is presented in a readable fashion and includes reference to use of the metal in such practices as acupuncture and treatment of tropical diseases as practised in some parts of the world, each of which is accompanied by special clinical risk. It is also a collation of current views on the use and efficacy of silver as a broad spectrum antibiotic. The chapters which deal specifically with toxicological aspects of silver in clinical, occupational and environmental issues are central to the book's value. The book is aimed at clinicians, research scientists and product manufacturers and will provide ideas for new research and academic endeavour. It is also essential reading for research students with an interest in metal toxicity and its management in mammalian tissues.

Colloidal silver is becoming the people's germ killer cheap, easily manufactured, and effective. Thoroughly documented with the latest findings from leading researchers working with colloidal silver, this book will answer many of the questions about this amazing substance. You'll discover how colloidal silver is being used as an alternative to antibiotic, antiviral, and antifungal products, and read testimonials from people who have been helped by its healing power. Includes plans to build a simple colloidal silver generator which will allow you to make colloidal silver at home for pennys an ounce. Includes photos and illustrations .

Since the potential toxicity of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) has raised serious concerns in the biomaterials and biomedical engineering community, Silver Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Devices: Biocompatibility and Toxicity brings together the synthesis, the physicochemical properties and the biological actions of Ag NPs, as well as the clinical demands for fabricating antibacterial medical devices, discussing how to suppress the side effects of nanomaterials and how to impart to them the selective toxicity. This book presents the two primary paradigms that have emerged in probing the antibacterial applications of Ag NPs, i.e. the active attacking releasing way and the conservative defending approach by taking advantage of various short-range actions; it shows readers how the ways in which Ag NPs have behaved can be engineered purposively. With contributions from leading international experts and extensive references listed in each chapter, this volume provides the general principles on controlling the physicochemical behaviors of nanomaterials and managing their toxicity risks.

This engaging, nontechnical book discusses 50 health scares that captured the public's attention before fading away, covering real and perceived health threats from long-ago eras to present times. Despite the benefits of advanced technology and modern safety mechanisms, the world around us seems to grow ever more dangerous and fraught with hidden risks. Even in the information age, it is challenging to discern factual, scientific information from sensationalized accounts in the media, "urban legends," or unsubstantiated Internet lore. In 50 Health Scares That Fizzled, award-winning author and researcher Joan R. Callahan examines 50 health scares in 7 distinct categories: medical interventions, infectious diseases, food scares, additives in foods or beverages, other biological hazards, chemical or radiological exposures, and lifestyle choices. With great wit and a light tone, Dr. Callahan alleviates readers' concerns and deftly explains the complex issues, making the subject matter approachable.

This book explores serious diseases and disorders that most readers have never heard of, ranging from genetic, infectious, and environmental diseases to autoimmune, idiopathic, and mental disorders. Despite centuries of scientific study and medical research, there are still many human diseases and disorders that remain difficult to manage or are incurable. Some of these maladies are extremely rare, yet, together, they affect a substantial number of people. The 101 Most Unusual Diseases and Disorders examines seldom-seen illnesses, providing high school and college students with an excellent resource for research as well as supplying fascinating reading for general readers interested in diseases and medical science. This book provides clear, easy-to-understand, and scientifically grounded information on the vast number of unusual medical conditions that have been recorded, covering five kinds of diseases and disorders: genetic, infectious, environmental, mental, and "other," which constitutes diseases of autoimmune and unknown origin. Examples of the medical conditions addressed include autoimmune encephalitis, Ebola, kleptomania, Morgellons syndrome, orthorexia, pneumoconiosis, and Prader-Willi syndrome. Selected case studies enable readers to better empathize with the experiences of those who have these disorders and how these afflictions have affected their lives.

A comprehensive account of the history of silver in medicine, its clinical benefits and advantages as a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent.