Reversible pulmonary function impairment in female patients with nickel sensitization: a cross-sectional observational study

Introduction : Nickel allergy is among the most common contact hypersensitivities worldwide. It affects women predominantly. This study examined whether female nickel-sensitized patients exhibit reversible changes in pulmonary function following a period of nickel avoidance. Aim : To evaluate pulmonary functional parameters (PFPs) in female patients with nickel sensitization and assess changes after nickel avoidance. Materials and methods : Twelve adult women with confirmed nickel hypersensitivity underwent spirometry before and after a 3‑month nickel avoidance program. Measured parameters included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Paired-sample tests and effect sizes were calculated. Results : All indices changed significantly after avoidance. FVC increased from 2.7±0.7 L to 3.4±0.5 L [t(11)=−5.50, p <0.001, d z =1.59]; FEV 1 from 2.4±0.6 L to 2.9±0.4 L [t(11)=−4.68, p =0.001, d z =1.35]; PEF from 3.9±1.3 L/s to 6.1±0.5 L/s [t(11)=−6.81, p <0.001, d z =1.97]; and the FEV 1 /FVC ratio from 82.9±2.9% to 89.6±7.5% [t(11)=4.39, p =0.001, d z =1.27]. Conclusion : In women with nickel allergy, pulmonary function improves significantly after nickel avoidance. Pulmonary assessment and avoidance counseling should be integrated into the management of female nickel‑sensitized patients with respiratory symptoms.