Cutaneous eruptions and intrauterine contraceptive copper device

In the course of 6 months, 1888 intra-uterine contraceptive devices (IUCD) were inserted in a public clinic for contraception. In 10 of the women the IUCD subsequently had to be removed because of skin complaints. Four of these women as well as 3 out-patients of the Department of Dermatology. The Finsen Institute, who had been fitted with an IUCD were tested for metal allergy with closed patch tests and intracutaneous tests. None of the women was allergic to copper. One woman was allergic to nickel, which could be traced in minimal amounts in the copper wire of the IUCD, though causal connection between nickel in the IUCD and the skin symptoms is believed to be unlikely.