Delayed and immediate hypersensitivity reactions associated with the use of amalgam.
Hypersensitivity to the constituents of dental amalgam is uncommon. When it occurs it typically manifests itself as a lichenoid reaction involving a delayed, type IV, cell-mediated hypersensitivity response. Rarely, a more acute and generalised response can occur involving both the oral mucosa and skin. We describe two cases that illustrate the presentation and management of these two types of reaction.
McGivern
B
B
University Dental Hospital of Manchester.
Pemberton
M
M
Theaker
E D
ED
Buchanan
J A
JA
Thornhill
M H
MH
D001768:Blister / Q000139:chemically induced*; D003723:Dental Amalgam / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005076:Exanthema / Q000139:chemically induced; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000139:chemically induced; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006968:Hypersensitivity, Delayed / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000139:chemically induced*; D017512:Lichenoid Eruptions / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D008628:Mercury / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D010328:Patch Tests; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced; D014060:Tongue Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced
D003723:Dental Amalgam; D008628:Mercury