Metals

Abstract

Nickel, chromium, and cobalt belong to the most frequent causes of contact allergy in the general population, certain occupational groups, and dermatitis patients. Consumer products and occupational exposure are the main sources of sensitization and elicitation. Pure metals, alloys, platings, and compounds have different ability to cause sensitization and dermatitis. Nickel release from certain items in contact with the skin and hexavalent chromium in cement are limited by EU regulation for allergy prevention. Strong indications concerning reduced exposure and health benefits have been noted following the implementation of the regulations; however, the problems are still very large. Several other metals are less frequent sensitizers, and some cause cross-reactivity. New data on elicitations thresholds and exposure levels have been published. The dimethylglyoxime test is useful in the assessment of nickel exposure and exposure reduction © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.