[Immediate type allergies due to metal compounds: platinum salts]

Immediate type allergies due to metal compounds containing chromium, nickel, cobalt and platinum are rare. However, allergies to platinum salts represent a major health hazard in few precious metal refineries and catalyst productions. Sensitization can be shown with a highly specific and sensitive skin prick test. A dose-response relationship has clearly been established by prospective longitudinal studies, however the definition of a valid threshold limit is difficult due to the high variability of exposure. Smoking is a predicting factor, whereas atopy is not. Prognosis depends on the duration of symptomatic exposure in high exposure areas. Secondary prevention (medical surveillance) is effective in the prevention of persistent symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.