Contact allergy to medical devices

Abstract

Background Medical devices are not subject to any legal obligation to declare ingredients. With an increasing number of available medical devices, increasing reports of contact allergies to these devices result in a more difficult, delayed or lack of diagnosis of the trigger. Methods Elaborate chemical methods, such as gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy, were able to detect novel contact allergens in medical devices. Results Diabetic patients requiring insulin benefit from sophisticated glucose sensor measurement systems and insulin pump systems, but are limited in their choices by the development of contact allergy. Potential contact allergens in medical adhesives, plasters, and wound dressings require extensive diagnostic testing. Contact allergic reactions to cardiac electronic implants are rare. The potential relevance of a contact allergic reaction to endoluminal stents to restenosis of the treated vascular territory is discussed. Contact dermatitis to medical gloves is usually due to the vulcanization accelerators. Mouth–nose protective or FFP2 mask-associated eczema is often irritant, very rarely allergic in origin. Conclusion With continued development of medical devices, new contact allergens are introduced. The declaration of their ingredients is necessary for rapid diagnosis and future prevention.