Systemic hypersensitivity reaction to endovascular stainless steel stent.

Endovascular intervention has become the mainstay for treatment of most patients suffering from peripheral vascular disease. We describe a patient with a known nickel allergy who underwent placement of a stainless steel stent for aortoiliac occlusive disease. Despite our attempt to avoid a nickel-containing stent, the patient developed a diffuse rash consistent with a nickel or metal allergy. A review of stainless steel metallurgy revealed that nickel, cobalt, and titanium are frequently used to provide anticorrosive properties to stainless steel. The clinical significance of the use of nickel-alloy stents in the setting of patients with a nickel allergy is discussed.