Metal Allergy and Orthopedic Surgery | Allergy Clinic Brisbane | Allergy Clinic Gold Coast

Concerns have arisen about the role metal Sensitivity/Allergy may play in the development of complications following orthopedic joint replacement surgeries. Hypersensitivity to such metals as nickel, cobalt and chromium

m may be responsible for pseudo-tumor formation, screw loosening and implant failure.

All metals in contact with biological systems undergo corrosion and release metal ions which can activate the immune system of susceptible individuals. This is significant as metal-on-metal prostheses are increasingly being used within orthopedic surgeries, and hypersensitivity to metal is far from uncommon. In fact, dermal contact with metals and ingestion of metals is estimated to cause immune reactions in up to 10-15% of the population.

Contact patch testing is increasingly being recognized by orthopedic surgeons as a useful preoperative method for identifying patients who may be at higher risk for experiencing a metal hypersensitivity reaction and complications following joint replacement surgeries.



At Allergy First Clinic Gold Coast, Allergy First Clinic Brisbane, and Allergy First Sunshine Coast we offer Contact Patch Testing