Materials and allergens within spectacle frames: a review

Abstract

The materials that have been reported as causing allergic contact dermatitis within spectacle frames are identified, and their most likely location on the frame is highlighted. The lack of any real control over spectacle frame quality and content is indicated to be a problem, as is the difficulty in determining the true source of many frames. Much of the information must be obtained from anonymous sources in the industry, historical 'common knowledge' of indeterminate source or reports of dermatological problems.

Allergic contact dermatitis from Solvent Orange 60 in spectacle frames

“…Therefore, the frequency of ACD cases from SO 60 might increase. However, there are probably many undetected cases, and SO 60 and SR 179, along with other reported allergens, should be patch tested in all suspected spectacle frame dermatitis cases (Table ), the more since production is globalized and international.…”

Nickel-Free Alternatives Raise Awareness

“…25 Eyeglasses and sunglasses may commonly contain nickel in the metal frame. 27 Patients should consider testing any metal exposed on their eyeglasses frames to determine the presence of nickel. Some products may initially test nickel-free due to an outer coating which may wear with time leading to exposure of the underlying nickel.…”

Allergisches Gesichtsekzem

“…Der Fall einer jungen, gegen Nickel sensibilisierten Italienerin, die ihr Gesicht mit einer Büroklammer malträtierte, um mit der so unterhaltenen Dermatitis eine bevorstehende, aber ungewünschte Heirat zu verhindern, ist hier allerdings eher eine Kuriosität [27]. Bei Brillengestellen kommt neben Nickel noch eine Reihe anderer Allergene in Betracht wie Farbstoffe, Acrylate, Isocyanate, Weichmacher (Phthalate), Kolophonium-haltige Poliermittel [74,75]. …”