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Percutaneous absorption of gold sodium thiosulfate used for patch testing
Halvor Möller1, Andrejs Schütz, Bert Björkner
1Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology, Malmö University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden. halvor.moller@derm.mas.lu.se
Contact Dermatitis
|September 18, 2004
Summary
Patch testing with gold sodium thiosulfate (GSTS) increased blood gold levels in all patients, regardless of allergy status. This suggests gold absorption occurs during standard allergy testing procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Contact allergy to gold is linked to jewelry and dental materials.
- Sensitization and allergic reactions require gold ionization and skin absorption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gold absorption into the bloodstream following patch testing.
- To measure blood gold levels after epicutaneous application of gold sodium thiosulfate (GSTS).
Main Methods:
- 66 patients underwent patch testing with varying concentrations of GSTS in petrolatum.
- Venous blood samples were collected pre-testing and on days 3 or 7.
- Blood gold concentrations were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
Main Results:
- Blood gold levels significantly increased in all patients after patch testing (median 0.34 vs. 0.03 micro g/l).
- The increase in blood gold was observed in both allergic and non-allergic individuals.
- No significant difference in blood gold levels was found between day 3 and day 7 post-testing.
Conclusions:
- Occlusive patch testing with GSTS leads to measurable gold absorption into the blood.
- Gold absorption during patch testing occurs irrespective of allergic sensitization.
- The study highlights potential systemic uptake of allergens during patch testing.