Attempts to induce contact allergy to nickel in the mouse

Various attempts to sensitize mice to nickel salts are described. The antigen was applied once or repeatedly by the epicutaneous or intracutaneous route and by combinations of the two. The procedures included prior irritation of the skin, treatment with Freund's complete adjuvant, cyclophosphamide or Tetramisol, and prior sensitization to picryl chloride. Contact allergy was achieved only by repeated epicutaneous application of a strong nickel solution over a 3-week period. The resulting dermatitis was demonstrated by a weak but significant wet weight increase of inflamed skin.