Re: stents

Posted By Dennis Lange on June 03, 1998 at 13:28:44:

In Reply to: Re: stents posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on June 02, 1998 at 21:10:48:






Could a metal stent in the heart cause an allergic reaction when exposed to photo finishing chemicals?  I broke out in severe hives after having my hands in photo chemistry. Thank you.
I have worked in photo finishing for years but had a heart attack last Oct.and went back to work after 6 weeks. Then in Feb. had stent put in and 2nd day back to work had this allergic reaction. I have been on Atenolol and Imdur. Could all the changes in my body cause this allergy or can you become allergic to something you haven't been in the past? Also do you know where I can get information on long term exposure to chemicals in this line of work on the heart? Workmens comp. has denied my claim because they say I never had a allergic reaction before. Thank you.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Dennis:
I have not heard of any such reaction to stents.  It is likely that you were allergic to one of the chemicals you were exposed to in the photo lab (which is not all that uncommon).  You need to be careful about re-exposing yourself to those chemicals; consider seeing a doctor that specializes in allergies first.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F25.