Two cases of nickel dermatitis showing vitiligo-like depigmentations

Yonsei Med J. 1991 Mar;32(1):79-81. doi: 10.3349/ymj.1991.32.1.79.

Abstract

The authors reviewed two patients showing "vitiligo-like depigmentations" where the skin had been in close contact with a metal spectacle frame made of nickel alloy. In spite of the hypersensitivity to nickel in both patients, they showed clinical and histologic findings indicate that the formation of "vitiligo-like depigmentation" does not result from posinflammatory hypopigmentation but from chemical hypomelanosis. We could not explain the underlying mechanisms; however, the speculation that the "vitiligo-like depigmentation" may come from the direct effect of the nickel itself, prompted us to report these cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dermatitis, Contact / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nickel / adverse effects*
  • Vitiligo / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Nickel