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Hello Doctors. I Have A Worry About A Resent One

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Posted on Sun, 12 Jul 2020
Twitter Sun, 12 Jul 2020 Answered on
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Question : Hello Doctors.
I have a worry about a resent one time exposure to a possibly carcinogen substance
I asked my local pharmacist if there was an over the counter remedy for a persistent dry mouth. He suggested gentian violet for oral thrush.
I applied a very small amount to the bottom gums and tongue. The amount was surely less than 0.5ml of a 1% solution in water and ethanol. I did not swallow any of it.
After seeing it turned my mouth purple. I immediately rinsed my mouth with salt water and vinegar and brushed my teeth and tongue 2 times to rid myself of most of the noticeable staining. I noticed some residual purple stain when I spit for a few hours after.
I’m now very concerned learning that this is a possible carcinogen in animal testing. I’m concerned about the amount that was absorbed through the skin or trace amounts ingested.
How concerned should i be from this exposure?
I apologize if you find this question foolish but the incident is impacting my daily life out of fear and concerns.
Thank you for your time today
doctor
Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry about

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to ask a doctor service
I have gone through your query and understand your concern.
Gentian violet is used as an antiseptic with antifungal, antibacterial and antihelminthic properties.
It is not reported to be carcinogenic.
I don’t think there is any need to worry.
Also the amount you have used is very small to cause any side effects.
There is no need to stress.
Regards
Dr Asmeet
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (17 hours later)
Thank you doctor. Do you have any concern about the study showing it caused cancer in mice? Is it tre that some substances can cause cancer after one exposure? I am concerned.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (51 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Welcome

Detailed Answer:
I don’t this it is carcinogenic.
In some of the studies it has shown to have antitumor properties.
Also a single exposure of this substance can’t lead to cancer.
So there is nothing to worry about.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 4993 Questions

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Hello Doctors. I Have A Worry About A Resent One

Brief Answer: Nothing to worry about Detailed Answer: Hi Welcome to ask a doctor service I have gone through your query and understand your concern. Gentian violet is used as an antiseptic with antifungal, antibacterial and antihelminthic properties. It is not reported to be carcinogenic. I don’t think there is any need to worry. Also the amount you have used is very small to cause any side effects. There is no need to stress. Regards Dr Asmeet