Allergic to titanium?

[kr4st]

Allergic to titanium? I have had three knee replacements, one a cement/antibiotic one. I am in constant pain and my leg has red spots on the aria of the knee replacement and is always wormer then the other leg. Now I have developed a severe allergy in my sinus, with the tubes plug and water on one ear. No one can tell me what I am allergic to. I read many people having the idea of allergies to titanium and I have read that the medical community say it not possible. The last two night I have had a temperature of 101, that comes and goes.
my meds are:
Mometasone Furoate 50 mcg 120d nasal
Loratadine 10mg
Rifampin 300 mg cap
my Gatofloxacin was discontinued by the VA
replaced with ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice a day.
Are you sure that there are no allergies to knee replacements  jeff graham

[star queen]

For everything natural or manmade, there is someone out there that is allergic to it.  It is very rare to have an allergy to titanium, but it has been know to happen, especially if you have allergies to any other metals.  See an allergist and get tested just to make sure. Since the metal is on the INSIDE of the body, don't do the skin tests, but have the blood test done.  You may need to call around to see who in your area does this type of allergy testing as not every office does.  good luck

[boninclyde]

I know a lady who had a knee replacement and she was allergic to titanium. I believe this product has been recalled. Many people are allergic to titanium. She was part of a national law suit against the company.

[Goozy]

I had cervical surgery on August 28th.  8 screws, 2 pins and bone fusion on 5 of my 7 cervical discs.  I am on no meds but I have this really strange feeling that I might be having a reaction to the titanium.  At no certain times, during no certain functions I get like this brain fuzz/fog (sort of electrical buzz) that lasts for only a second or two.  During some of them there is a chemical/metal type smell that only I smell.  Has ANYONE else had this.  I am very unsure of telling my surgeon because he may want to do more surgery and I have had enough of the neck surgery's.  This was my second one.

Can anyone help.

[Khryce]

I am beginning to wonder if I'm allergic to titanium as well.  I know I have an allergy to the metals that "cheap" earrings are made with, and can't wear silver earrings for very long either.  The only metal I seem to be okay with is gold (14kt etc, not overlays).  About a year ago I started developing pain on the right side of my head only.  No doctors have been able to tell me what's wrong as I have experienced swelling in various areas and an incessant clenching of my teeth with most of the pressure being exerted on the right side.  Headaches come and go, and I've been experiencing mild dizziness from time to time.  I have also had a fever of about 101 that never seems to exceed that, but comes and goes as well.  My PCP asked about the eyebrow piercing on the right side of my face and I informed her it was made of titanium.  She then concluded that it's probably not the issue (being that I hadn't had any issues with infection at the site of the piercing).  She's the only person that brought it up, and now it's got me thinking.  I've have this piercing for over 3 years now and just realized that it was probably about a year ago that I changed the piercing from a gold bar to the titanium one.  Today I decided to change it back to the gold one and see if there's any improvement over time.  I wouldn't have thought titanium would be an issue as it's used in various forms of surgery, but based on what I've read about the possibility that there are people that are allergic to titanium, I'm beginning to wonder if this maybe the root of my problem.  Has anyone else experienced this type of problem with something as menial as a piercing?  I'll post again if I see any marked improvements over time.

[MonkeyMagic]

Hi Khryce. I recently bought a couple of titanium ear studs (surgical grade) which I've worn twice and each time, after about 30 minutes, my throat would become increasingly sore and I would started feel like I was getting the flu or something. After removing the studs over night and going to bed, I would feel fine in the morning and my throat would be almost 100%. I don't know if it this is coincidence but I'm certainly very suspicious of titanium now. I've never had to my knowledge any other reaction to metal.

[snuffy200]

I had my gallbladder removed about a year and a half ago .  I still have sharp pain in my right side almost every day. It's taking over my life . I heard that they clip arteries with titanium clips. I wonder if this is causing my pain. anyone with answers?

[Button1]

I had a biopsy on March 11, 2008 (which was benigh thank God) in two days after my biopsy I started with a rash and itch that drove me nuts.  The Dr, told me at the time of my biopsy that they were going to place a titanium clip in me to make the spot for future mammogram's.  I explained to the Dr. that I was highly allergic to any kind of metals and was deeply concerned about the clip and my reaction to it.  He stated that one, they wouldn't do my biopsy and two that there was NO CHANCE of me getting a reaction from the clip.  I trusted his professional expertise and had the clip put in.  A month has gone by and after steroid packs and anti itch medicine, I am still suffereing with a constant itch and trouble sleeping at night.
My primary Dr., had referred me to a Vascular Surgeon to have the clip removed as I have a rash all around the breast and upper part of my chest.  The Vascular surgeon states that it is NOT from the tituanium and he will not take it out as it is a difficult procedure.  He wants me to now see a Dermatologist.  I am being bounced around from one Dr. to another and nothing has been resolved.  I am extremely concerned as how this is effecting my body and my breast as it is in the blood stream.
Can anyone tell me where to seek medical advice to resolve this problem once and for all!  Clearly, there are LOTS of people out there that are having numerous reactions to titanium in one way or another..

[bqmoo23]

I spent 2007 listening to conventional doctors tell me there was "no way".  I proved on my own that I was extremely allergic to the cobalt used in the base on a cap on my teeth.  I am still having residual problems and my whole family knows that even if it is a case of life and death that I will not accept an implant of any kind of metal.  I am sincerely sorry that you are going through the reactions.  My best advice is to be persistent.  You know your body better than anyone else.  Stick to your guns.  I found my dentist through the advice of a holistic nutritionist.  Holistic medicine is much more supportive of the belief in allergic reaction manifesting in differnt and unsualy ways.  You don't have to go head first into holistics but there is valueable insight to be gained by being open minded.

[GaryG331]

My wife had spinal fussion, three level, which included the use of a titanium plate. She has developed severe eye problems (styes, redness, swelling). She has been to eye doctors, skin doctors, and they are just trying different meidications with no luck. She is alergic (allergic) to some metals in jewelry, and that this might be an allergic reaction to titanium. Is there anyone else with this possible problem. Any feedback would be aprreciated, Gary from Illinois

[gisworld55]

Do a search on MELISA test.  Lots of info on titanium allergies and a test for determining if you are allergic to titanium.

Lisa

[Dr_Aparna]

Allergy to the metal parts of the implant has occasionally been reported. People who know they have metal allergies should be tested with extracts of the various metal components of the implant prior to surgery. You should notify  your doctor if you believe you have a metal allergy. Metal allergies are rare and the tests are not completely reliable, so they are only performed if a metal allergy is suspected. Allergy to the plastic parts has never been reported. Small particles of plastic or metal from the implant may cause a reaction in the bone but this is not a true allergy.
Ref:http://www.hipsandknees.com/knee/kneesurgerycomplications.htm.

[AJWS6]

I purchased some prescription frames recently.  The area the frame inserts into the ear, developed a bad rash, skin broke & bled on both ears, it was pretty disgusting.  My allergy symptoms went into overload.  

I visit the Optomotrist office, I was allergic to the titanium frames purchased.  Changed frames, and used Neosporin recommended by Opt office, and the issue disappeared.

I am allergic to Titanium.  Opt tech, said Titanium frames are commonly known to cause allergic reactions.  

    

[Shelly57]

I'm Shelly from upstate NY.  Two years ago I had broken my shoulder cracked off my humeral head(shoulder). I slipped on ice and tried to hold onto my SUV to break my fall. Neeldess to say my arm went behind my neck and there's the story.  But, it goes on for a while.  I was told I had a cartlidge tumor.  Nothing to worry about, it just was bone that did not develop.  Well, now said tumor was taken out and supp. low grade bone marrow cancer was the diag. for now.  Lucky with no chemo/rad. treatment. But, MSK installed Titanium rods (2) of them and used this cement.  I've had installed over 15 mos.  Now, since May 15th. I've been having fainting spells.  My nose is numb my hands get ice cold.  My blood pressure drops and my breathing in very shallow and slow and your heart just feels like it's not doing well. I've had EEG/MRI/CT and nuclear heart stress test/ Tilt Table Test and passed everyone with flying colors. To top it off I noticed on this sight. (Goozy) refers to a smell on they can smell. I have that same smell and it's almost metallic or a dusty(old attic)smell to it.Then you are very dizzy and want to pass out. Then I've had some lost of taste and smell all together.  I've since June 14th, 2008 have been in Rochester, MN.  I'm being seen now daily at the Mayo Clinic. Everyone is wonderful.  But, since day one I've been complaining about a titanium allergy. My Dad and sister have known allergies to titanium.  They look at you like you have 4 heads.  They(Dr's.)also tell you becasue these (Titanium)allergies are not really documented.  They really don't know what to do.  Well, thank God I ran into this lady allergist here.  Who when I told her about the cement type they put in my arm or anchor the titanium rods.  She called my intern. Dr. and said wait a minute this cement causes partial anaphy.shock.  Gee, one month later after a many tests now, some Woman believes me!!. So, I'm off on Mon. to see the ortho/oncologist here.  Hopefully they will get these awful things out of me.  I have 2 small boys at home (6 & 4) and a wonderful Husband and I want my life back. One month away being this sick and ill is not fun and I want to go back home and start my life over at 45!!! Someone (Dr.) needs to realize this is a true allergy and it does happen to nice people. It's been hell on earth and it's time for a change and Dr's. need to open their eyes and help people like all of us with this allergy to metal.  Is that not why they got into medicine in the first place to help.. Well, let's figure this out so families can have their lives back!!! Thanks, Shelly

[itchyimplants]

I was advised to get titanium zygomatic and dental implants.   within a couple of weeks I had incredable itching all over my face and neck.  The Dentist as well at the oral surgeon deny that it could be the implants.  This symptom has had no or little relief over 1 1/2 yrs.   The dermitologists say that it is an onset adult ecxema...right.......
I will be much more addiment on having these removed as well as tested.

Judi

[Heatherdene]

Titanium allergy exists - the problem is that skin/patch testing which is usually used to diagnose allergy to metals is not properly developed and standardized for testing of titanium allergy and therefore most test will be negative. However the MELISA blood test can diagnose allergy to titanium and other metals found in implants. If your doctors don't believe you, please bring them the following two articles which can be downloaded for free:

The link to the articles are here

Hypersensitivity to titanium: Clinical and laboratory evidence
http://www.melisa.org/pdf/Hypersensitivity%20to%20titanium.pdf

Clinical and laboratory evidence and LTT-MELISA® is clinically relevant for detecting and monitoring metal sensitivity
http://www.melisa.org/pdf/MELISA%20is%20clinically%20relevant.pdf

You can also email the MELISA Medica Foundation if you have any questions about testing. Contact info can be found on www.melisa.org.

Linda Nelson

[uncmedtech]

Question:  What was the time frame that your "allergy" showed up after you were exposed to titanium?  I think that I'm allergic as well, but my doctor says that "I'm Crazy".  "Allergy to titanium is impossible".

Thanks.
Lisa

[uncmedtech]

Would you please tell me how you were able to "prove" that there was Cobalt in your cap?  I found that I had mercury in my fillings and am losing my teeth.  Ironically a capped tooth fell into my hand and you can see the metals used, but I don't know what they are.
Mercury does not stay in the blood, so I will have a soft tissue biopsy, but Cobalt isn't routinely tested for Heavy Metal Toxicity.  Can you tell me what I need to ask for?

Thank you,
Lisa

[aimee359]

I find this so interesting...I started doing research on Titanium allergy because my mom has been so sick since she got titanium rods implanted in her spine about 7 years ago.  The doctors have told her that the metal could not cause her symptoms.  She has had extreme fatigue, dizziness, brain fog, tingling in her legs, lately her heart has been racing.  I am pretty convinced that it is the titanium.  

[gold4kts]

Thank the good Lord I found this sight. Like others I too have been allergic to metals, never been able to wear ear studds made of anything but gold, (not overlay) and like button1 I too have a titanium clip in one breast, and that area has been itching for the last year..I never put it together...but now I was going to a dentist for implants. He started with some bone graft to build up the sight. and tacked the area with a titanium tack to hold whille it healed. Well guess what swelled up twice? I was takling antibiotics because they thought it was an infection. Another dentist thought I might need a root canal in the adjoining tooth. You could see the spot on the gum where the tack was, looked like a big pimple and was sore. Yesterday had the tack removed. (swelling is down and feels better already) The dentist talked about the next step being the titanium implants for the teeth., He too stated nobody is allergic to titanium...I think i'm putting everything on hold until I have some allergy testing done.  Thanks to all of you I've found this out beforehand.

[joke3]

I had back surgery in June /08 , i had titanum plates and ball put in my back. It has been four months and i am still not healed. Ihave had to go through surgery again in Sept./08 for a infection. A week later i have another infection on right side of my body. Can someone tell if this a allergy to titanum.

[Goozy]

Wow, I can't believe that this thread is still going.  But, I have news for everyone.  Way...... back I wrote the the questions about the possible allergy to titanium - I was the one with the 8 screws and 2 pins in my neck.

Well, I went to an allergist and asked him.  Let me go back one more step.  I too, am allergic to cheap jewelry (it's the nickel in it) and I am allergic to aluminum.  I looked up on line what metals are used to make titanium.  What do you think I found?  Nickel!  So, that is when I presented my question to the allergist because my surgeon (being the ego maniac that he was said that I was crazy).  The allergist said and I quote "They were supposed to test you for allergies before they put the titanium in you".  Which means the possibility does exist!  I asked how I can be tested for it now.  He said I need to confront my surgeon and ask him for a sample of the screws or pins inserted in my neck".  He could then test me for the allergy.  He also said that I would develop weakness, redness and warmth over the area that they were placed in.

So, If any of you REALLY think that this allergy is a possibility then get a sample of the metal from your surgeon and take it to an allergist and get tested. Do not go to your nearest machine shop and ask for some because it must be surgical grade, not industrial (two different animals altogether).

I hope this helps.  I have not gotten my sample yet but I am working on it.

[Salupeil]

Yes, there is such thing as an allergy to "titanium" but you are actually allergic to the .2% of nickel in the titanium. If you have ever had reactions to costume jewelry, then titanium is not the one for you. Make sure you have the MELISA test down, it is a blood test that can test all different types of metal. They have several types of surgical panels they can run on your blood. DO NOT get the skin test done, it is inconclusive. The metal reacts differently in the body, screwed into bone than it will on skin. Furthermore, like myself, it didn't react right away or even within a month or two, but rather five to six months down the road. Hope this helps everyone who questions the allergy to titanium.

[BIRD45]

I had a tooth implant done Jan 2006. May 2007 I was hospitalized with symptoms of numbing tingleing of arms and legs,feet and the sides of my face. When standing, after laying down or sitting down I would feel lots of pressure like my feet were swollen. I felt fatigue and no energy. I even had a urn/track infection. I was in the hospital for 7 days running 150 blood test. They came up empty. It could of been stress... so they say. March 2008 after living  with all of these symptoms... they have gotten worse. My entire body is itchy and I have chronic hyves.  I get urn/track infections.I welt up just looking at my skin. Iv'e been living in hell! My entire body needs to be scratched at all times. I block it out... but it's exhausting. My energy is still very low. This is and internal allergey and the only thing that I can think of is the titanium inplant. Kaiser is my health care provider and they do not test for titanium. I've been bumped back and forth. I contacted member services looking for a referrel outside of Kaiser and they tell me to contact my doctor.. when i did she said she spoke with the allergist(who has not seen me at all) and he told her that I don't have a titanium allergy. Wow, how does he know that when Kaiser doesn't test and most of all he has never seen me. I will test with the Mellissa Institute. I'm getting the name  of the type of titinium that was used with the implant from my dentist. If I find out that it is titanium... watch out Kaiser !!!!! I just want my health back.

[brennanb]

Like Bird45 I too have been experiencing chronic hives for the last nine months.  Nothing seems to control it and I am on some serious medication trying to get it under control. I am now being seen at the Cleveland clinic and have a new dermatologist that believes there is something internally going wrong. My immune system is being attacked with no explanation other than my Ige(allergy level) is continually climbing.  I am allergic to nickel, don't know about titanium. I have two markers in my breast. I am having a lumpectomy done sometime this month and I am going to make the request to the surgeon, to please remove the markers. I have always been very active but my life has changed drastically since these hives started. I have muscle pains and my lungs are staring to fail.  I have never smoked a day in my life. Praise God! I found this site and hope this is the anser to my prayers.
Thank you to all of you for posting.

[diane_306]

I am so thankful I found this website.I have been made to think that there is no such allergy. Here just take some Paxil.I had a gallbladder surgery in 1993(laproescopic)for some reason I have 13-24 surgical clips on my liverbed .My liver function tests ALT&AST 1500&1800 along with my sed rate also elevates.After that happened we had to drive across to get help knowone on this side of the state would do anything to help.After driving all that way the M.D. told me it was a very dangerous procedure(ERCP),and he would advise me to wait until it was worse,and he at that point took off with my records. Even his nurse tryed calling him on his cell phone and he wouldn't get it ,and she commented that was strange. We never did receive all of them.Then we found most of them under a different name in a file there.I received a letter from them saying that that M.D. was no longer working there,and I could see a new M.D. working,and I have since then had 6 E.R.C.P.'s done there.If I even go to E.R.they try to set up an appt. with there ERCP specialist on this side of the state, and the first M.D. to ever do a ERCP on me, now when the emergency room refers me to him (and it was completely scarred down when he done the ERCP)he just has his receptionist call and say there was nothing he could do for me. the surgeon that done my gallbladder surgery is no longer in this area,or even an M.D. He felt it was to much responsibility for him ,and is now a radioligist,in another according to the state of Wash.I just pray that I can get a new liver and get my life back! I am trying to fiind someone who knows how to set up website up about it to help us get enough money to go out of the country to grt a new liver.I have a M.D. that will do it,we are financially drained from this medical situation dragging on so long.And of course our credit is also medically ruint.All as they are really doing right now is treating the symptoms,I am on anti-biodics alot of the time ,morphine all of the time thyroid pills,Ibuprofin.I have had alot of the same symptons as the titanium allergies rash,hives,tingeling in my feet,hands,face,ringing in my ears(I woke up from my first ERCP and it hasn't ended yet) vomitting,fevers,terrible pressure on my right upper quaderant that wraps around my back,up to my shoulder.If you have any suggestions please contact me!                                                                             Thanks Diane Fry  15094741324                                        

[sedgs1u]

There is such thing as titanium allergy, any implant is considered a foreign object to the body and anybody can react to it. I suffered with unexplaied migratory joint pain and swelling,heart palpitations, GI disturbencesn, chronic cough, a diagnosed mitral valve prolapse by echo., enlarged, but fortunately benign enlarged lymph nodes in my neck.  I went to every specialist while they "guessed" what was wrong with me: I knew that I have never been able to tolerate any kind of jewelry, including my wedding ring without breaking out locally and feeling systemically sick.  I suggested to all some 15 doctors I went to in three different states(husbands transfer) and none of would even entertain the idea that I could be reacting to my 10 dental fillings. Even though by ct scan of my whole body, the only lymph nodes enlarged where in my neck.  I finally just called my dentist and asked him to replace all of the fillings with composites.  He took 5 out on monday, 5 out on tuesday. By wednesday I quit taking the 800mg of ibuprofen i was taking 3 to 4 times a day to be able to function with this arthiritis type joint I had migrating through each and every joint of my body.  I was misearable and finally felt so much better.  then about 6 months later I started having return of my symptoms, along with swelling in the right side of my neck, where I had had my second lymph node biopsey about 7 months before.  I had a copy of my surgical report and read that the surgeon  had placed 2 metal clips there.  I called the surgeon and reviewed the symptoms i was having again and the above story of the dental fillings.  He said , "I have never heard of anyone being allergic to those clips, they are bicompatible and unless you can prove your allergic and I don't know of any testing, there is nothing I can do for you." Well.....now what do I do, I wasn't absolutely misearable as before, but I knew I might be headed that way.  I decided to wait see if my symptoms got worse, which they did. I called Vanderbilt asthma and allergies and asked if they had any way to test for metal allergies. they said yes. I went there and they used TRUE TEST which are dollar bill shaped testing strips and each one had a spot of 10 different things you could be allergic to.  they taped them face down to my back, I went home and wore them for 48 hours. My symptoms got alot worse, pain diarrhea, heart irregular beat. when the girl peeled them off my back, she gasped and said.  "I've never seen anyone so allergic to nickel, there is a huge blister and that classifies you as severely allergic."  Finally documented proof why I felt so much better after my dental fillings were removed and I needed to have these clips taken out of my neck. Well.....the next day the allergy md says we got copies of the clips that are in your neck and their titanium, not nickel.  He said the only way he know to test would be to tape them to my back againg and see what the reaction was.  We did and the symptoms I had were worse, my heart felt like it was really flip floppin, I probably should have taken the clips off, but I was determined to show proof. when the girl took the clips off she had the same reaction, said they was a huge blister. she applied benadry cream and the doctor gave me steroid pack.  The allergiest told the onc. surgeon in person  what my results where(he did say one time, "I don't know why the surgeon asked me if testing was possible, we work in the same building.") I think he was just being stubborn and would never believe a pt. could possibly know what their own body was doing. I asked the allergist what the surgeons reaction was, he said "He was totally dumbfounded and never thought it was possible." I guess he learned somethig.  I was set up with a plastic surgeon to remove the clips, they felt it would be difficult not to damage the nerve to my arm.  Luckily everything went fine and once again i was symptome free.  I had a follow up echocardiogram after all was done and they found no traces of the murmur.  Don't let anyone tell you metal allergies, especially titanium are not possible.  Research, and find someone who will listen.    

[donkeyrokman]

My wife had a total knee replacement several years ago, and has not had a day without pain since then. The knee area is constantly swollen and warm to the touch. Many doctors later, and several useless procedures, we have no answers. They just throw up their hands. Now I think I know what the culprit is. Nothing else makes sense.
Here's the question though. Let's assume she takes the test and confirms that she is allergic to surgical titanium.....what then? Is removing the implant the only solution? She couldn't bear it.  

[Goozy]

I am fairly certain the only option is the removal of the implant.  THAT is the only reason I have not done anything about my titanium issues.  I have already had (2) operations on my neck.  One through the front of my neck and one through the back of my neck.  I was out of commission for quite a while with each one.  The first operation they took bone from my hip to fuse my spine, the second time they removed all of the old fusion and put in the 8 screws and 2 rods.

My decision is: is this allergy bad enough for me to go through another operation on my spine?  I can't seem to come up with a answer, so in the mean time I do nothing.

Best of luck to you and your wife.

Stacey

[screwedupinbuffalo]

I had cervical fusion done about 8 years ago with titanium plate and screws.  I started feeling fatigue and my sterling jewelery that I have worn for years had now turned black on me.  Now my face is breaking out bad and I have had trouble with my throat (like something is in it) and i have  trouble swallowing which has all gotten worse over the years.  I have read on here that my surgeon should have given me a blood test to see if I was allergic to metal alloys.  This was not done and I am allergic to nickle.  I know that they can go back in and take out the plate and screws I just need to know what that does to the fusion site.  Is it weaker?  Can I live without this plate and screws at the site?  I was told that the plate and screws was there to hold site together while it was fusing.  I would appreciate any info that can be given to me.   Thank you   Screwed up in Buffalo

[MaryR051]

I was very interested in readiing the comments on problems with titanium implants. I am a 58 year old female.  In 2002 I was riding with a group in the mts when my friends horse kicked at my horse, but got my leg about a quarter of the way up from my ankle.  It was an open break with the large broke in two pieces.  The Dr. put a titanium rod through the knee through the bone and screwed it in at he top with two screws.  He told me how wonderful this was because I left the hospital the next day with no cast and my healing time was supposed to be shorter.  OK. I am very active, I walk a lot and do Bikram yoga.  My leg bothers me all the time.  It is sore to touch where the implant ends towards my ankle and  always hurts when I talk a lot.  I always just work through it.  When I run or jog it really hurts.  I am not so old that I don't want to run or job sometimes.  Now I am developing sebaceous cysts on that leg.  I had one removed and now I have three more.  I went back to the Dr who put in the implant and he said my leg bothers me because it isn't as strong as the other leg.  But I don't think that it is.  I exercise a lot.  I have fibromyalgia and exercise keeps me going.  Does anyone else with my type of implant have any of these problems?  

[jeffsgirl2006]

I read your post about your wife.  I had a two-level spinal fusion on March 4, 2009.  Since then I have had an all over body itch with NO rash.  My GP has reviewed my medication, given me creams, prescription meds for itching and sent me to a dermatologist.   I am miserable and itch from the inside out.  The itch has gotten so bad that it wakes me up at night.   The dermatologist said that I could be allergic to the titanium in my spinal hardware.  I did not even realize that was possible.  More doctors should give you a metal allergy test before implanting these items into your body.

[vah2009]

Titanium allergie are not as rare or "impossible" as most doctors will tell you. I'm living proof. I had 2 cervical spine surgeries a year ago: posterior and anterior. Neurosurgeon fused 3 vertebra & implanted 2 pieces of donor bone, a titanium alloy plate (Reflex Hybrid by Stryker Co.) and 6 titanium alloy screws. I immediately started to experience a myriad of health problems: intense skin rashes & itching, severe infections, chronic fatigue, muscle & joint pain, brain infection, blood clot, extreme weight gain, just to name a few. I've been hospitalized 5 times in 1 year as a result. Finally, after arguing with my GP for an entire year, he finally relented and sent me to an allergist for testing. Results: I'm allergic to the following metals: Nickle, Cobalt, Zirconium and Titanium. My neurosurgeon was great but he did not want to even discuss the possibility of an allergy to the hardware in my neck. Now he has no out - he has to discuss it. We meet with him on July 21, 2009 to discuss my next surgery - removal of all metal in my neck. This will make it my 6th hospitalization and 3rd spinal surgery in a year. Frustrating. Doctors need to become more educated with respect to metal allergies and metal implants - if they are going to practice in these fields they need to be fully aware and open to the possibility of metal allergy and more specifically Titanium allergy - it does exist and I'm living proof. Here's a link to published research by Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston relative to allergy to titanium hardware after spinal fusion surgery: http://www.archives-pmr.org/article/S0003-9993(04)00946-3/abstract

[vah2009]

I had a similar surgery a year ago and it all depends on the type of hardware implanted in your neck. I had Titanium alloy Reflex Hybrid (Stryker Co.) and 6 Titanuim alloy screws. This type of hardware is used to stabilize the spine while the bones fuse. Once the bones are fused, the surgeon can go back in, unscrew the hardware and simply remove it. I was informed by the nurse @ my neurosurgeon's office that removal of this type of hardware is very simple, in fact, much simpler than installing it. Once the bones have fused, there is no need for the metal hardware. Talk to your surgeon. Get a copy of the implant log from the hospital where you had the surgery, that will identify the type of metal hardware that was implanted along with part & seriel numbers. Then you will be able to contact the company that manufactured the hardware to get a spec sheet which will give you the exact metal content of your implant & screws. Armed with this info and results of metal allergy testing your surgeon will have to discuss the issue with you and a course of treatment. Removal is not the end of the world. I'm allergic to Titanium and will be meeting with my neurosurgeon July 21st to set up surgery for removal of my Titanium alloy hardware. Good Luck and don't give up.

[scadaman]

Recently, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and choose brachytherepy (titanium seed implants).  Thus far the results have been, in my opion, spectacular.

However, shortly after the implants, I started to experience itching over my entire body.  The only relief I can get is by using antihistimines.  

Has anyone experienced this, and if so, what was your course of action.

Thanks,

Mike

[rinaenae]

OMG!!!  I had double disc disection and fusion done in nov 09.  Since then I have had what I thought was allergies, but they dont go away with any sort of allergy medication....and I have tried alot.  I have a chronic sore, itchy throat that gets worse toward the evening, itchy ears that are sensitive to noises and ring, sore itchy eyes with sharp pains in the corners. I thought I was going blind because my vision is blurred, so I went to get glasses....they dont help.   I get random bumps that look like a pimple and they itch like crazy. I get frequent headaches,Im  fatigue, have no energy, I feel like I am in a fog and I cant sleep. What else?  I thought that I was going crazy until I went to the doctor today and she had ask me if they put a plate in when they did my surgery.........I didnt even think that could be the reason why I am feeling so terrible.....this has been going on for the entire year!  Im going to go get tested!  

[ania630]

I am so glad guys I found this site!!!! I have reumathologist appointment tomorrow and I am in tremendous pain for few months. I have arthiritis-like pain in my joints, horrible... I can forget about working out (what I love) even after yesterday yoga I am dying from pain today.
At the and of last year I've had placed titanium implant (thanks God just one). What I think now it may be metal alergy (allergy)... My God... finally solution... Whatever reumathologist will say I am going to take metal alergy (allergy) test, and then probably implant removal, I don't know what they're going to do with the hole in the bone remaining after screw removal (any ideas?). I have feeling like every dentist should send his patient to metal alergy (allergy) test before placing titanium implant! Come on they should have this knowledge already. I am pissed off ....

[sassyjay]

I have had back surgery and they put in the titanium rods an screws..After surgery my life has been turned upside down. Two days ago I talked to the doctor who done the surgery he says it is easy to find out.. He took some of the implant and we attached it to my arm for three days...well guys im on my second day and around it there is blisters.. This is a easy test and i dont know why it wasnt done before my surgery.. Now maybe they will listen to me. Seeing the blisters was a blessing for me because now I know im not crazy.. It is real keep on pushing them guys.. If the doctor doesnt do it for you ask who the rep is for the product and get his or her number..talk to them they are very welling to help you.. Good luck guys and I cant wait to get this out so I can be me again...  Janice

[Serbin]

I need help also.  Please let me know all your symptoms.  I had a titanium implant put in for my front tooth on Sept 21.  
I started with joint pain a  week afterwards.  Stomach problems and now horrible headaches in my temples.  Doctor feels it is inflamed arteries.
Thanks to an allergy doctor in Jersey, I had my blood sent to Canada, Melisa Group.  It came back mildly allergic to implant titanium.
Now I don't know what to do....getting input from all the doctors, dentists, etc.  The dentist can remove it but I will be left with a hole and need bone grafts.  But he said he
can do it, if that is what I decide.
I am anxiously awaiting your input.  Let's see if we have some common denominators here and can help each other with info.  Thanks, Maryann

[Nadinefriend]

Glad I found all these comments… Thank you all!  I'm searching for my wife who will need to have dental bone grafts which will eventually be followed titanium posts for implants.  She has extreme nickel and cobalt sensitivity.  When her allergist performed the patch test he was horrified with the silver dollar sized patch of blisters that resulted (it took a month to heal) and suggested that she was some kind of poster child for metal allergies.  Apparently, while 15% of the population has some sensitivity to nickel, only .6% have one to titanium.  Well, .6% just doesn’t seem rare enough that the medical staff performing these implants are completely ignorant to the possibility of a reaction.   There are also plenty of web articles out there that state that titanium implants are completely hypo-allergenic.   See this article: http://www.osseonews.com/drosseo/content/78229-titanium-allergy-dental-implants-patients, and http://www.osseonews.com/melisa-test-for-hypersensitivity-to-metals/ for a discussion among the dental community on the MELISA test for titanium sensitivity and when it should be indicated.  I’ll repost once she runs this by her allergist with his reaction and what kind of costs are associated.

[Serbin]

The costs run from $300 to $750.  Depends on how many metals you want tested.

I did the entire test, 8 viles of blood were sent.  Figured if I was doing it, it was worth
seeing how many I was or wasn't allergic to.

The people at Melisa was extremely helpful and will send you all the info via internet.

Please keep me posted on any facts you learn about titanium allergies.

Thanks. Serbin

[Serbin]

I am faced with your same decision.  What they do is remove the implant.
THEN, they have to fill the hole and that is done with a bone graft. This is
necessary so that we don't have a big hole in the front of my mouth.
Then they can move forward with making a partial plate, after the bone graft takes.

I am in the process of consulting with family doctor, regular dentist, prostidontist,
periodontist and allergist over the next week.  To see where I go from here.

Since I tested with Melisa and came back with a MILD allergy, everyone is up
in the air as to what I should do.  Take it out....or wait it out....experienced headache,
digestive problems and joint pain.  Coincidence or titanium!!!!!  Wish there was an easy answer.

My doctors/dentists are all willing to work with me, but the final decision is up to me.
Just want to feel good.  Is your tooth in the front or back?

[ania630]

My all symptoms started around 6 months after placing implant. Joint and muscle pain of elbows, knees, ankles, some fingers and toes with swelling. Problems with walking, lifting havy things, tiredness... I mention pain after mild yoga before?... my hands were swollen for four days - it NEVER happened before. I am 33 years old not 80 like somebody maybe could think but sometimes I feel more like that....Pain is "traveling" to the different parts of the body. Looked like sympthoms are getting worse and pain is stronger and there was no day without pain. WAS because I went to the rheumatologist and now taking anti-inflamatory pills. Rheumatologist didn't even want to see printed pages from MELISA site and disscuss possibility of metal allergy, he said: " I don't know anything about it and I will not make any decission based on something written online... " Doctor?? Something like that? He didn't have time even look at it... I just wanted to cry.... For me it was :" I don't know anything about it and I don't want to know"...
Today I had dentist appointment, it was a little bit better. I actually cried to him, I just felt hopeless....He said it is possibility for metal allergy, "but hypersensitivity to titanium is so rare... you never will be sure..." He cannot guarantee anything, he doesn't know how accurate is MELISA test, etc, etc. But he will send me referal to MELISA. Decision will be mine.
I feel OK now, thanks to the anti-inflamatory pills (MELOXICAM 7.5 mg) actually pain went away next day. But how long I can take pills?? Still waiting for blood test results from rheumatologist (appointment next wek), need to make x-rays of my knee and both hands.
I think about taking MELISA test, still waiting for referal from dentist. The worst for me are costs. I made the implant while I didn't have insurance, it cost me around $3000, now I have insurance but still there will be costs of the removal and tests... I am sure insurance is not going to cover anything... Now I play a little bit with time, because at least pain is gone...
My tooth implant is #13 upper jaw (what a happy 13...), so in the middle.
Serbin please let me know how are you doing, did you make any decision? How much did you pay for MELISA test? $750? right? and do you know how much implant removal and all the procedures will costs? Thank you and I am open for any disscusion and let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!

[Serbin]

Well Ania,
it seems like this is up to you and me to try and get all the info we can from people everywhere, but then the final decision is ours, and then we have to live with the results.
Yes, I too paid to have the implant put in. $3,500  plus $1,000 for temporary and full exrays so dentist was sure I was a good candidate.
My biggest problem is breathing problem.  For now I am getting enough oxygen but it is more like a spasm that is happening.  Looking to find someone with the same reaction.
Joints are bothering me some. But I can still function.
None of my doc/dentists have experience with this type allergy.  But they all say that doesn't mean it isn't there.  They just haven't seen it.  They were also waiting for the results of test and this "mild allergy" diagnosis has everyone on the border line.
I would have to pay full price, no insurance will cover, to have it removed.  I don't know what that cost is.  I see Surgeon Dec. 2, so I will discuss with him then. keep you posted on that info.
I would have it out in a heartbeat TODAY if i knew for 100 % that that is it.  

I am going to call Canada Melisa people to see if they can give me some more clarification of what they know about this diagnosis.

All you need is any doctor to write you a script for a blood test from them. And then call Melisa and they will send you all the info immediately to get it done.

You do not have to spend $750 if you want to test for only one metal i.e.  Titanium roughly $250.  Your results may show a lot more sensitivity to the metal then mine did and that will confirm for you that removal is the very best thing to do.

The results from your rheumatologist (a regular blood test)  will not show the allergy to specifically titanium.  

You can contact me at ***@****.

[ania630]

I am sorry to hear about all off your symptoms... I know how it is to not be sure what is the cause...
Could you please remind me one more time (sorry if I missed and you already wrote it) how long after implant placement the symptoms begun? and is it then when joint problems started too?

The thing with me and my rheumatism is that I had some pain before and I always was sensitive to the weather changes. When was raining I had headaches, mild leg pain once in a while, let say once a 1-2 months, headaches more often. I usually was taking pain killers for headaches and remember taking once in 6 years pain killer for joint pain before it all started. I remember it because I lived in Europe before and I was thinking it is just climat changes. But I never was diagnosed with rheumatism or never had a big problem that needed to go the specialist.

I don't know if you are familiar with rheumatologist diseases. Everytime it hurts and there is inflamation (inflammation) let say in the knee, it invides and erodes cartilage and bone with the joint. The joint may lose its normal shape over time and become deformed. There is no medication to stop the process, they can slow it a litlle bit and help with pain + inflammation. I feel OK with the medicine right now but I don't want to give up and don't look for causes.
I had my x-ray done today, maybe at next visit doctor will tell me something more about the inflammation.

Actually when I was looking over the internet trying to find the cause for my pain the first website which attention was dr. Mercola site :

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/08/08/Be-VERY-Careful-When-Replacing-Missing-Teeth.aspx

where for the first time it gave me any idea about any connection with tooth implant. Then I've found MELISA site and more info.

Everything is just about not being sure for 100%, I would do the same thing as you wrote - remove the implant with no second thought. Anti-inflammatory pills did the trick I could forget about the problem but we both know that most of the doctors will cure (whatever your disease is) and don't even bother to find the cause...
Please keep me posted after your surgeon appointment. I sent you my email address to your medhelp email box as I couldn't find yours.
Thanks for keeping in touch,
Ania