Plasma cell gingivitis associated with nickel allergy: diagnostic challenges and patient management – a case report


Turgut Çankaya Z., Çolak G., Barış E., Atak Seçen İ., Yalçınkaya Ö.

BRITISH DENTAL JOURNAL, cilt.240, sa.6, ss.407-412, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Vaka Takdimi
  • Cilt numarası: 240 Sayı: 6
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1038/s41415-025-9341-8
  • Dergi Adı: BRITISH DENTAL JOURNAL
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus, Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), MEDLINE
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.407-412
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This report aims to present the clinical features, treatment approach, and management guidelines for plasma cell gingivitis (PCG) associated with nickel allergy. A 63-year-old woman was admitted to the clinic with complaints of gingival overgrowth and bleeding. Anamnesis and clinical examination revealed that she had been wearing metal-based fixed prostheses for 15 years. A complete blood count was performed and, after excluding malignancy, histopathologic evaluation revealed a diagnosis of PCG. A skin patch test confirmed nickel allergy, supporting the suspected link between the gingival condition and prolonged exposure to nickel-containing dental prostheses. Nickel levels in gingival tissues were evaluated using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) before and after removal of restorations. AAS measurements detected 6.6 μg/g of nickel before removal and no more than blank analysis afterward. Following phase one and surgical periodontal treatment, and systemic steroid therapy, zirconium-supported prostheses were fabricated. The patient’s gingival tissues returned to a healthy condition. This case report shows that PCG related to nickel allergy is characterised by gingival overgrowth with a fiery-red appearance. To confirm clinical findings, histopathological evaluation should include nickel quantification whenever possible. Treatment options should prioritise the elimination of nickel-containing prostheses, with substitution by all-ceramic restorations, to achieve resolution and prevent recurrence.