A metallurgical approach to metal contact dermatitis.

It is well-known that some metals/alloys are sensitizing on skin contact, but it is not so well appreciated that sensitization is dependent on the reaction of the metal/alloy with sweat. The first step in skin sensitization by metals/alloys is a corrosion process and the formation of soluble metal ions. The nature of this process has implications with respect to occurrence of metal contact dermatitis, to testing techniques and to classification of metals/alloys as skin sensitizers.