In my case the simple patch test showed nothing. I went ahead with the blood test, with the idea that the cost was minimal compared to possible pain and complications if I was allergic to some metal. My blood test came back positive for about 3 of the 10 or so metals (can't remember the exact numbers)> Dr Nguyen put a ceramic knee in and it went great. Not at all sure if the metal knee by Striker would have caused my any issues but I'm sure glad I eliminated that unknown issue. I understand from others I've talked to that other Drs don't test for allergic reaction to metals. To me it seems like a easy decision - If you have pain after the new knee would you wonder if it was a allergic reaction ?
I guess a valid question would be " are the metals I'm allergic to in the knee replacement being put in" ? Not sure I got a answer to that question. I am very happy with my "ceramic" knee but I'm not exactly convinced there is no metal in a ceramic knee either.
|