Cutaneous and Systemic Reactions to Metal Implants

Cutaneous and Systemic Reactions to Metal Implants: Utility of Patch Testing Prior and Post Placement of Metal Orthopedic Implants

The purpose of this study is to evaluate if metal patch testing in metal allergic patients is useful for predicting the development of allergic skin disease or systemic symptoms in patients who recieve a metal orthopedic implant.

This prospective cohort study will enroll patients with a history of metal allergy who require implantation of a metal orthopedic device. Patients will be followed for one year after surgery to determine if any symptoms including rash, itch, joint pain, joint swelling, and/or joint failure develop post implantation.

Patients will be recruited from two sites: (1) Divisions of Orthopedics and Allergy & Immunology, Winthrop University Hospital, and (2) Division of Immunology, and Allergy Section, University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Inclusion Criteria

1. Age ≥18 years with a history of metal allergy who require joint repair (hip, knee and/or shoulder)
2. Able to undergo patch testing

Exclusion Criteria

1. Patients on oral immunosuppressant medications within 4 weeks of patch testing or topical corticosteroids to the back within 1 week of patch testing
2. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding