Positive patch-test reactions to platinum are rare.

BACKGROUND

Although contact allergy to some metals is common, patch testing for allergy to platinum is rarely performed.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of positive patch-test reactions to platinum in an unselected consecutive group of patients presenting for diagnostic patch testing.

METHODS

Unselected patients who presented with a possible diagnosis of contact dermatitis were tested with a series of allergens, including ammonium tetrachloroplatinate 0.25% aqueous.

RESULTS

Of 446 patients tested, only 2 females showed positive reactions to platinum; one had no other positive reactions, and the other had reactions to other metals.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive patch-test reactions to platinum are rare. However, platinum jewelry may occasionally provoke allergic contact dermatitis.