Novel metal allergy patch test using metal nanoballs.

Tomoko Sugiyama,Toshio Hongo,Hitoshi Sasaki,Mikio Kusama,Heishichiro Takahashi,Takahiro Wada,Motohiro Uo,Daisuke Omagari,Kazuo Komiyama,Yoshiyuki Mori

doi:10.1186/s12951-014-0051-7

Tomoko Sugiyama, Toshio Hongo + Show 8 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12951-014-0051-7

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Abstract

BackgroundPatch tests are often used in the clinical diagnosis of metal allergies. In currently available patch tests, high concentrations of metal salt solutions are used. However, diagnosis accuracy can be influenced not only by acute skin reactions to high concentrations of metal salt, but also by skin reactions to other components present in the patch or to pH changes. In this study, we developed Ni nanoparticles (termed “nanoballs”) for use in patch-test solutions.FindingsHighly soluble, spherical Ni nanoballs were prepared using plasma electrolysis. The Ni released from the nanoballs permeated through a dialysis membrane, and the nanoball-containing solution’s pH was maintained constant. Ni ions were released slowly at low concentrations in a time-dependent manner, which contrasted the rapid release observed in the case of a commercial patch test. Consequently, in the new test system, reactions caused by high concentrations of metal salts were avoided.ConclusionsBy exploiting the high specific surface area of Ni nanoballs, we obtained an effective dissolution of Ni ions that triggered Ni allergy in the absence of direct contact between the nanoballs and mouse skin. This novel patch system can be applied to other metals and alloys for diagnosing various types of metal-induced contact dermatitis.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12951-014-0051-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Highlights

IntroductionIn currently available patch tests, high concentrations of metal salt solutions are used
Patch tests are often used in the clinical diagnosis of metal allergies
By exploiting the high specific surface area of Ni nanoballs, we obtained an effective dissolution of Ni ions that triggered Ni allergy in the absence of direct contact between the nanoballs and mouse skin

Summary

Introduction

In currently available patch tests, high concentrations of metal salt solutions are used. Available patch tests use high concentrations of various metal salts in aqueous solution. They contain a reservoir sheet that allows the test solution to permeate into the skin to induce a local allergic reaction (Figure 1a). Metal allergies are often triggered by metal ions that are continuously eroded from metallic materials under neutral pH conditions, and in this case, the metal ion concentration is typically low.

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