title: Allergy in total knee arthroplasty: a review of the facts.
abstract: We explored the literature surrounding whether allergy and hypersensitivity has a clinical basis for implant selection in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In error, the terms hypersensitivity and allergy are often used synonymously. Although a relationship is present, we could not find any evidence of implant failure due to allergy. There is however increasing basic science that suggests a link between loosening and metal ion production. This is not an allergic response but is a potential problem. With a lack of evidence logically there can be no justification to use 'hypoallergenic' implants in patients who have pre-existing skin sensitivity to the metals used in TKA.
authors.affiliation: Royal Devon and Exeter Hospitals Foundation Trust, Barrack Rd, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Middleton
authors.affiliation: Royal Devon and Exeter Hospitals Foundation Trust, Barrack Rd, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Toms
mesh_terms: D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology*; D007720:Knee Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011474:Prosthesis Design
keywords: Total knee arthroplasty; allergy; metal hypersensitivity