Title:Immunogenicity of Nickel-Further Explored
Volume: 21
Issue: 12
Author(s): Mohsen Baghchechi and Sharon E. Jacob
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Immunology, allergy, nickel, autoimmune, epidemiology, metal implant, hypersensitivity
Abstract: Recent reports of the relationship between nickel, allergy and autoimmunity have
been described. However, there remains a lack of information on the concordance between
nickel sensitization and potency. Of note, an article by Drenovska et al. recommended a call
for increased epidemiologic studies to define the prevalence of autoimmune syndromes induced
by adjuvants such as nickel-containing metal implants. Accumulating reports of dermatologic
manifestations following medical device implantation highlights the need for consideration
regarding the potential sequelae following metal implantation. Considering the medical
and the functional necessity of certain device materials, the authors agree calling for further
epidemiological studies are needed to prevent metal-related autoimmunity, and additionally
discover novel testing strategies.
