Contact sensitivity to metals (chromium, cobalt and nickel) in childhood

Abstract

Metals, especially nickel, are the most common contact allergens in children. Recent data has shown increased incidence of allergy in industrialized countries. Sensitization can occur at any age, even in neonates. Costume jewelry, particularly earrings, is linked to increased sensitization to nickel. Sensitization to cobalt often occurs by the use of costume jewelry. The most common source of sensitization to chromium is leather. Due to the absence of a specific therapy, the main treatment is to identify and avoid the responsible allergens. This article presents an updated view on the epidemiological and clinical aspects of contact allergy to metals, focusing on prevention strategies and risk factors, and warns about possible and new sources of contact. Keywords: Child; Chromium; Cobalt; Dermatitis, allergic contact; Dermatitis, contact; Nickel Resumo: Os metais, especialmente o níquel, são os sensibilizantes de contato mais comuns em crianças. Dados recentes revelam aumento na incidência da alergia deste em países industrializados. A sensibilização pode ocorrer em qualquer idade, mesmo em recém-nascidos. Bijuterias, especialmente brincos nas orelhas, são ligadas ao aumento da sensibilização ao níquel. A sensibilização ao cobalto geralmente ocorre pelo uso de bijuterias. A fonte mais comum de sensibilização ao cromo é o couro. Devido à ausência de terapia específica, o principal tratamento consiste em identificar e evitar os alérgenos responsáveis. Este artigo pretende apresentar uma visão atualizada sobre os aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos da alergia de contato aos metais, focando estratégias de prevenção e fatores de risco, além de alertar sobre as possíveis e novas fontes de contato.

Metals in cosmetics: implications for human health

“…However, these products can be potentially dangerous for children, including especially atopic children. The children's skin is particularly thin, so it is very susceptible to external harmful factors (Brandão and Gontijo, 2012). Toy cosmetics are sold in kits such as eye shadows and lipsticks.…”

Debunking the Myth of Wool Allergy: Reviewing the Evidence for Immune and Non-immune Cutaneous Reactions

“…There have been no reports of IH to chrome dyes in textiles. Although chromium is a well known contact allergen, fabrics have not been a source of sensitisation (73). A literature review of tex-tile dye dermatitis by Hatch & Maibach (74) similarly reported no cases of ACD owing to after-chrome dyes.…”

Piercings in medical students and their effects on the skin

“…The individual, who insists on keeping the adornment even with dermatitis, cannot however foresee the development of hypersensitivity. 35 In this investigation, a student had allergic sensitization to nickel confirmed by patch testing.…”

“…This knowledge is important in the medical environment because such situations can have serious physical and emotional consequences, and require specific approaches for their prevention and treatment. 1 , 29 , 32 - 35 The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of cutaneous piercing and the ensuing consequences among young medical students.…”