Titanium allergy is rare, affecting only 4% of the population. It can result in rashes, hives, redness and itchiness of the skin. Titanium metal as well as titanium dioxide can cause an allergy. While titanium metal is used in implants/ jewelry/ piercings, titanium dioxide is used in medications, cosmetics, and confectioneries.
Although titanium is a reliable metal which is used in many forms, it can still cause an allergy. People with other metal allergies such as nickel, cobalt and chrome allergies stand at a high risk of allergy to titanium. An allergy can be detected by skin irritation at the site of contact of the metal with the skin.
What causes Titanium Allergy?
Titanium allergy is predominantly a metal allergy. Skin redness, itchiness, hives and rashes are generally observed. These symptoms show up at the site of contact with the metal. Titanium dioxide can also cause similar symptoms.
As allergy to titanium is rare, very few centers take up this allergy test. For determining an allergy, a blood test is usually conducted.
Prevention and treatment of Titanium Allergy:
- If you suspect the allergy is caused due to titanium, immediately remove the jewelry or piercing
- Avoid contact with titanium metal
- Topical corticosteroids applied over the skin can relieve the skin irritation
- Antihistamines can also help in relieving the allergic reaction
- If you suspect an allergy, do take up the allergy blood test
The blood allergy test consists of taking a blood sample and checking for titanium-related antibodies. After this, your allergist can prescribe proper medications and prevention strategies to overcome titanium allergy.
MELISA Test for Titanium Allergy
MELISA ® is a leading test conducted to gauge hypersensitivity to metals. It is generally used by doctors and dentists to check if a patient shows allergy to commonly used materials in bodily implants or dental restorations.
About four percent of patients reveal allergic reaction to titanium. The allergy usually goes away after the titanium-containing implant is removed.
