A clinical trial of oral hyposensitization in systemic allergy to nickel
Schiavino, D.; Nucera, E.; Alonzi, C.; Buonomo, A.; Pollastrini, E.; Roncallo, C.; De Pasquale, T.; Lombardo, C.; La Torre, G.; Sabato, V.; Pecora, V.; Patriarca, G.
International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology 19(3): 593-600
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0394-6320 PMID: 17026844 Document Number: 597388
Nickel allergy is the most common contact allergy. Some nickel-sensitive patients present systemic (cutaneous and/or digestive) symptoms related to the ingestion of high nickel-content foods, which significantly improve after a specific low nickel-content diet. The etiopathogenetic role of nickel in the genesis of systemic disorders is, furthermore, demonstrated by the relapse of previous contact lesions, appearance of widespread eczema and generalized urticaria-like lesions after oral nickel challenge test. The aim of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of a specific oral hyposensitization to nickel in patients with both local contact disorders and systemic symptoms after the ingestion of nickel-containing foods. Inclusion criteria for the recruitment of these patients were (other than a positive patch test) a benefit higher than 80% from a low nickel-content diet and a positive oral challenge with nickel. Based on the previous experiences, our group adopted a therapeutic protocol by using increasing oral doses of nickel sulfate associated to an elimination diet. Results have been excellent: this treatment has been effective in inducing clinical tolerance to nickel-containing foods, with a low incidence of side effects (gastric pyrosis, itching erythema).