Metal sensitivity in patients treated for tibial fractures with plates of stainless steel.

In three patients a local dermatitis developed 3-3 1/2 months after tibial osteosynthesis with plates and screws of stainless steel 316 L (AO). Two of the patients had a positive patch test for chromium (and cobalt) and one for nickel. Infection was not indicated and it is suggested that the dermatitis was caused by a metallic sensitivity. The skin affection disappeared after removal of the metal.