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Published on: May 12, 2020
In vitro testing for cobalt sensitivity: an aid to diagnosis
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Diagnosing cobalt sensitivity is improved with a DNA synthesis test. This in vitro method reliably detects lymphocyte responses to cobalt compounds in patients with positive patch tests.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergy and Dermatology
Background:
- Cobalt chloride (CoCl2) sensitivity is often diagnosed via patch testing.
- Assessing the cellular immune response in vitro can provide further diagnostic insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reliability of a DNA synthesis test for diagnosing cobalt sensitivity.
- To characterize the in vitro lymphocyte response to various cobalt compounds.
Main Methods:
- Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 45 cobalt-sensitive patients and 37 controls were stimulated with cobalt compounds (CoCl2, CoSO4, Co(NO3)2, [CH3COO)2Co).
- Lymphocyte proliferation was assessed using a DNA synthesis assay.
- Specificity was confirmed using lymphocytes from nickel and/or chromium-sensitive patients.
Main Results:
- 35 out of 45 cobalt-sensitive patients showed significantly greater lymphocyte responses compared to controls.
- The cobalt-induced lymphocyte response was T-cell enriched and monocyte-dependent.
- In vitro responses did not correlate with in vivo patch test dilution results.
- Lymphocytes from nickel/chromium-sensitive patients did not react to cobalt compounds, confirming specificity.
Conclusions:
- The DNA synthesis test is a reliable in vitro method for diagnosing cobalt sensitivity.
- This assay can aid in differentiating cobalt allergy from other metal sensitivities.
