Studies have identified mobile phones and related devices as sources of metal sensitization and potential causes of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).
The aim of numerous researches is to discover the link between using mobile phones and allergies in both children and adults. Thus, some of them show that nickel sensitization is common in children, resulting in ACD prevalence levels of up to 33%. Experts warn that with the rising use of cell phones and other mobile devices, pediatricians can expect to see additional cases of ACD.
Despite efforts to control allergen release in phones, many phones on the market release levels of metals, such as nickel and chromium, which are sufficient to induce ACD, according to an article in Pediatric Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonology, a peer-reviewed journal published by Mary Ann Liebert.
This information is important for practitioners, particularly when evaluating patients with dermatitis of the face, neck, hands, breast, or anterior thighs – common places exposed to cell phones. Using new data, researchers provide important diagnostic tips for practitioners and strategies to raise awareness of nickel- or chromium-induced mobile phone ACD.
