Nickel sensitivity to surgical skin clips

Abstract

Abstract A case of hitherto unrecorded skin sensitivity to surgical skin clips is reported. A sensitivity test revealed that the sensitivity was to the nickel constituent of the copper/nickel alloy of which surgical clips are manufactured. It is suggested that when the use of skin clips is anticipated inquiry should be made of the patient as to the previous experience of sensitivity to metal articles of attire and the use of skin clips consequently avoided if the reply is affirmative.