Is the Immune Response to Nickel Metal Responsible for Nickel Allergies?

[praeclarum]

Nickel allergy is a very common allergy. It causes contact dermatitis. But why is it allergenic, being a metal. Recall that allergies are caused by an immune response. What exactly are you reacting to -- the nickel metal itself??

 

[DaveC426913]

Well a quick Google turns up this:
http://corrosion-doctors.org/Allergies/images/Pierced.jpg

Sorry, I meant this:

In fact the allergy is not caused by nickel itself but by the nickel salts which are formed under the effect of perspiration in contact with the piece of jewellery piece or watch. This phenomenon is always accompanied by corrosion of the object.

http://corrosion-doctors.org/Allergies/nickelallergy.htm

 

[praeclarum]

Interesting! Thank you.