DMG sensitivity
The DMG has modest sensitivity:
“The sensitivity of the DMG test was 59.3% and the specificity was 97.5% based on DMG-test results and nickel release concentrations determined by the EN 1811 reference method. … The EN 1811, a European standard reference method developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), is fine-tuned to estimate nickel release around the limit value of the EU Nickel Directive from products intended to come into direct and prolonged skin contact.”
Direct and prolonged contact with FREE RELEASED nickel is what leads to sensitization and skin rashes (allergic contact dermatitis). Because of the DMG sensitivity issue (not always detecting) – consumers should not rely on this 100% but rather use if for screening.
Past exposure studies may have underestimated nickel release from consumer items.”
Read more here:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20536475
From a clinical impact standpoint, if the object turns pink with the DMG test – best to avoid it – but be aware that it is not 100%… DMG sensitivity is only 59.3%
learn about DMG testing here:
https://www.dermatitisacademy.com/nickel-sources/
