“ET” Material Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Abstract

PRECÍSSources of nickel allergy can be missed, as in our unusual case of contact dermatitis to nickel. DISCUSSIONA 31-year-old physicist presented to our clinic with an 8-week history of erythematous and itchy plaques on his wedding ring finger and on his belly, behind his belt buckle. He was in good health with a history of atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis.Patch tests were performed with the European standard series (Hermal; Reinbek, Germany) and preservatives series. The readings were done on days 2 and 4. On days 2 and 4, the reading was positive (+++) to nickel(II) sulfate. The test confirmed contact dermatitis to nickel.The patient changed his belts, and improvement was noted on his aforementioned abdominal skin. This was not the case for his finger. Later it was discovered that his ring was made out of a type of meteorite iron called Gibeon, which was bought from a specialized boutique in Paris, France.Dimethylglyoxime test (Chemotechnique Diagnostics, Vellinge, Sweden) was done to identify the presence of nickel in his ring, and the result was positive.The dermatitis resolved once he stopped wearing his ring and avoided contact with objects containing nickel.

Contact allergy to a meteorite: An interesting consequence of nickel allergy

“…One case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by a ring in a patient allergic to nickel has been published so far. 3 In conclusion, it is interesting to remember that some allergens found on Earth can have dropped from outer space.…”