Nickel allergy and cells phones

Cell phone dermatitis is on the rise. A new form of nickel allergy (allergic contact dermatitis to nickel) on the face and ears is appearing after using phones which contain nickel. 

An article published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that over half the cell phones tested with a dimethylglyoxime (dmg) spot test tested positive for nickel. Menu buttons, decorative logos and metallic frames around the liquid crystal display (LCD) were the most common sites where nickel was found on the mobile phones.

It appears that trendier fashionable cell phones often have metallic accents which contain free nickel. When possible, researchers recommended nickel sensitive individuals test cell phones for nickel content before purchasing.

The following cell phones have tested positive for nickel:

Device/Model	Location of Nickel
Black Berry 8700c	Speakerphone (back of phone)
LG VX8350	Around Camera & keypad
Motorola L2	Headset (decorative logo)
Motorola Razr	Headset (decorative logo)
Motorola SLVR	Headset (decorative logo)
Motorola Q	Headset (decorative logo)
Samsung e105	Metal by the screen, menu button
Samsung d807	Menu button
Sony Ericsson W600i	Menu button
Sony Ericsson W810i	Menu button
Sony Ericsson T610	Handset (if paint is chipped)
Devices tested but did not contain nickel
Black Berry Pearl	Nokia 6062
Kyocera KX444	Nokia 6820
LG VX8300	Nokia 6230
Motorola i580	Nokia 6682
Motorola i870	Palm Treo
Nokia 6061	Sony Z520a

It is recommended individuals test mobile phones prior to purchase when possible.  If a cell phone containing nickel is currently owned, there are 3 options for owners to consider:

• Coating the area with Nickel Guard—3 thin coats is very effective on non-movable parts.
• Use the speakerphone or headset.
• Use protective plastic cover.

The duration and conditions of use greatly influence the likelihood of a reaction. Prolonged contact especially in warmer environments enhances nickel transfer to the skin and will intensify the rash.

CMAJ January 1, 2008 178 (1) pgs 23-24