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Complementary and alternative remedies: an additional source of potential systemic nickel exposure
Luciana M de Medeiros1, Anthony F Fransway, James S Taylor
1Section of Industrial Dermatology, Department of Dermatology (A-61), Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Contact Dermatitis
|January 12, 2008
Summary
Nickel allergy sufferers may be exposed to nickel through complementary and alternative remedies. These products, including homeopathic and herbal options, can pose a risk for systemic contact dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Systemic contact dermatitis from nickel is a known issue, often linked to medical devices and oral exposure.
- Identifying all sources of nickel exposure is crucial for managing nickel allergy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential, less-obvious sources of systemic nickel exposure.
- To identify nickel content in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) products.
Main Methods:
- Searched internet and medical literature for CAM products containing nickel.
- Evaluated identified products for nickel content and potential exposure.
Main Results:
- Nickel was found in several homeopathic preparations advertised for skin conditions.
- Other identified sources include additional homeopathic remedies, herbal products, and multivitamin/mineral supplements.
Conclusions:
- CAM products represent an additional source of systemic nickel exposure.
- High doses from these sources may pose a risk for systemic contact dermatitis in nickel-allergic individuals.
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