Allergic contact dermatitis reported in electroplaters, photographers, guilders, machinists, dental technicians, and jewelers; [Kanerva, p. 516] Gold is a "hepatotoxic agent." [Zimmerman, p. 4] Adverse effects of organic gold salts used to treat rheumatoid arthritis include hematuria and nephrotic syndrome. This effect has not been reported in industry. [Rosenstock, p. 574] Danger of skin sensitization--soluble compounds only; [MAK] Most metal compounds of nitrates, acetates, chlorides, bromides, iodides, and sulfates are soluble, while most hydroxide, carbonate, and phosphate metal compounds are insoluble. [Nordberg, p. 19] Gold nanoparticles coated with hyaluronic acid were found to be weakly embryotoxic (less embryotoxic than gold salts); [
PMID 20566333] "High doses of gold were embryotoxic and induced teratogenic effects in rats and rabbits." Rats inhaling gold nanoparticles showed mild lung inflammation. Patients receiving gold therapy may have dermatitis, stomatitis, proteinuria, nephrosis, leukopenia, and rarely, thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia, and injury to CNS, liver, and lungs. Thrombocytopenia may be the first sign of fatal aplastic anemia. [Nordberg, p. 817-29]