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Patch Testing With an Extended Metal Allergen Series at the Massachusetts General Hospital (2006-2017)
Idy Tam1,2, JiaDe Yu2,3, Lauren N Ko2,4
1From the Tufts University School of Medicine.
Dermatitis : Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug
|June 11, 2020
Summary
Metal allergies, including to rare metals, may be more common than thought. This study analyzed patch test results, finding nickel, gold, and palladium were frequent allergens, especially in women and younger patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Limited data exists on patch test reactions to an expanded series of metals, including rare metal allergens.
- Suspected metal allergy is a growing concern, particularly with the increasing use of metal implants and devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patch test results from an extended metal series.
- To investigate the relationship between metal sensitization, sex, and age.
- To identify common concomitant metal reactions.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review was conducted on 150 patients with suspected metal allergy.
- Data was collected over a 10-year period (January 2007 - December 2016).
- Patch testing was performed using an extended series of 45 metals.
Main Results:
- 58% of patients showed positive reactions to at least one metal.
- Nickel, gold, and palladium were the most frequent allergens.
- Females were more prone to nickel, gold, and palladium sensitization; younger patients showed higher rates for nickel, mercury, palladium, and cobalt.
Conclusions:
- Metal allergy, even to less common metals, appears more prevalent than previously recognized.
- Findings can inform diagnostic strategies for suspected metal allergy.
- Further research is recommended to fully understand the scope of metal hypersensitivity.
