Patch test reactivity to nickel alloys.
11 widely used nickel alloys were investigated with respect to corrosion stability and reactivity in nickel-sensitive individuals. Alloys with a nickel release in synthetic sweat exceeding 1 microgram/cm2/week gave a strong patch test reaction in nickel-sensitive persons; those with a release below 0.5 microgram/cm2/week showed weak reactivity with one exception. Nickel allergy is a health problem. It may be minimized by using nickel alloys with a corrosion level below 0.5 microgram/cm2/week. Action should be taken by dermatologists, industry and authorities to solve this neglected problem.
D000497:Alloys / Q000633:toxicity*; D002858:Chromium Alloys / Q000633:toxicity; D003343:Corrosion; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009532:Nickel / Q000633:toxicity*; D012882:Skin Tests; D013193:Stainless Steel / Q000633:toxicity
D000497:Alloys; D002858:Chromium Alloys; D013193:Stainless Steel; D009532:Nickel