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Metal Allergy

Century City Allergy Our Services Metal Allergy

Century City Allergy

Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Specialists & Board-Certified Allergist located in Century City, Los Angeles, CA

If you've developed a rash from jewelry, watches, belt buckles, or medical implants, a metal allergy may be the cause. Patch testing can help pinpoint the specific triggers so you can find relief and avoid future reactions. Contact Dr. Meth and Dr. Lee to explore your options.

Metal Allergy Q & A

What metals do we test for?

  1. Aluminum: found in cookware
  2. Chromium: found in steel, cement, leather
  3. Cobalt: found in implants, pigment, tools
  4. Copper: found in jewelry, IUDs, plumbing
  5. Nickel: found in jewelry, zippers, watches
  6. Manganese: found in stainless steel, implant alloys
  7. Molybdenum: found in surgical steel, implant alloys
  8. Tantalum: found in implants, surgical clips
  9. Titanium: found in implants, piercings, frames
  10. Vanadium: found in titanium alloys, implants 
  11. Zirconium: found in dental implants, deoderants

Who should consider testing?

  • Before a joint replacement or implant: orthopedic and dental surgeons often refer patients for metal allergy evaluation before implanting hardware containing nickel, cobalt or chromium alloys
  • Persistent skin rashes: Recurring eczema or contact dermatitis on the wrists, earlobes or abdomen is a common sign of metal contact sensitivity
  • Reactions to dental work: oral symptoms, gum irritation, or skin rections following dental procedures may indicate sensitivity to metals used in crowns, braces, or fillings
  • Reactions to everyday items: Redness or itching where jewelry, watch bands, eyeglass frames or clothing hardware touches the skin is hallmark of metal hypersensitivity

How does patch testing work?

  1. Application (day 1): Small adhesive panels containing metal allergens are placed on your back. They stay in place for 48 hours during which you'll need to keep the area dry.
  2. Removal and first read (day 3): The panels are removed and an initial reading is performed. Early reactions help us assess what your immune system is responding to.
  3. Final reading (day 4-7): A follow-up visit allows us to capture delayed reactions that develop over several days which is important for accurate, complete results.
  4. Results and guidance: We review your results together and provide a written list of metals and products to avoid, and safe alternatives where relevant.

 

 

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