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Characterization of nickel-induced allergic contact stomatitis associated with fixed orthodontic appliances.

Genelhu MC, Marigo M, Alves-Oliveira LF, Malaquias LC, Gomez RS

Immunology Research Laboratory, School of Health Science, Vale do Rio Doce University, Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais, Brazil. genelhumc@uol.com.br

INTRODUCTION: In some orthodontic patients, an oral inflammatory response is induced by corrosion of orthodontic appliances and subsequent nickel release. This inflammatory response is manifested as stomatitis (nickel-induced allergic contact stomatitis [NiACS]). The etiology and diagnosis of NiACS are difficult to determine. The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to investigate the roles of age, sex, previous allergic history, and time of exposure to fixed orthodontic appliances in the etiopathogeny of NiACS. METHODS: Forty-four orthodontic patients (range, 10-44 years) were divided into 2 groups, depending on their NiACS clinical manifestations. RESULTS: Young patients, especially females with a history of allergic reactions, had a greater predisposition to NiACS clinical manifestations; time of exposure to orthodontic appliances was not a significant factor. CONCLUSIONS: A previous allergic reaction should be considered a predictive factor of NiACS clinical manifestations and should be noted in the patient's medical history.

Published 19 September 2005 in Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 128(3): 378-81.
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