Specific Features of Allergic Reaction to Metals: From Aetiology to Prevention

The purpose of this study was to investigate the principal characteristics of allergic diseases caused by common allergenic metals. For this, a thorough search of relevant information presented for 2018-2023 in the Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted. The study found that one third of the world's population suffers from allergies, and 20% of them are diagnosed with metal allergies. To date, 45 metals have been identified as causing allergic reactions. The main routes of exposure to metals are inhalation, contact, oral, and parenteral. The following diseases develop as a result of metal exposure: various types of contact dermatitis, urticaria, anaphylactic reactions, conjunctivitis, rhinitis, ulcerative colitis, arthralgia, stomatitis, gingivitis, and bronchial asthma. The main diagnostic method is the patch test. Allergy treatment depends on the type of allergic reaction. In case of immediate allergic reactions, emergency treatment with epinephrine is required. For diseases that develop as delayed allergic reactions, the use of corticosteroids and antihistamines is effective. Allergenic metals should be avoided to prevent the onset and development of allergies. For this, it is advisable to use gloves, protective creams, and masks. It is essential to carefully read the composition of the products used and individually select alternative non-allergenic materials. The prescription of a diet aimed at correcting the content of metals in the body improves the general condition of patients and reduces the severity of symptoms. Thus, metal allergy is a common pathology that causes the development of a wide range of diseases of varying severity.