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Occupational contact dermatitis due to nickel allergy
1Department of Occupational Dermatology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
The Science of the Total Environment
|June 6, 1994
Summary
Occupational nickel exposure is a significant cause of nickel allergy in men, often overlooked by dermatologists. Identifying workplace nickel sources using the dimethylglyoxime test is crucial for managing this common skin condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Allergology
Background:
- Nickel allergy is a prevalent dermatological issue, affecting a substantial percentage of women and a smaller proportion of men.
- Occupational exposure to nickel is a significant, yet often underestimated, factor contributing to nickel allergy, particularly in male populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the importance of occupational nickel exposure as a cause of nickel allergy in men.
- To identify common workplace sources of nickel release responsible for contact dermatitis.
Main Methods:
- Patch testing was employed to diagnose nickel allergy in patients.
- The dimethylglyoxime test was utilized to detect nickel in various occupational materials and tools.
Main Results:
- 8% of men and 30% of women tested positive for nickel allergy.
- Commonly used tools by tradespeople (carpenters, electricians, plumbers) were identified as sources of nickel release.
- Unexpected sources, including black-nickel plating and nickel-treated anodized aluminum, were found to cause nickel dermatitis.
Conclusions:
- Occupational nickel exposure is a critical, often unrecognized, cause of nickel allergy in men.
- Dermatologists require increased awareness and knowledge regarding occupational nickel sources.
- The dimethylglyoxime test is a valuable diagnostic aid for identifying nickel exposure in the workplace.