Are Apple's iPads Causing Nickel Allergies in Children?

According to a new report in The Washington Post, based on new research published in the Pediatrics journal, the nickel found in Apple's iPads is causing an increase in allergies to the metal among children.

The Pediatrics research reports that an 11-year-old boy was treated at a San Diego hospital when a rash appeared all over his body. While the boy had a history of skin issues, a different rash developed all over his body and wouldn't respond to typical treatment.

His skin tested positive for nickel which is among the most common metals to cause an allergy with doctors tracing the source of the problem back to an iPad the boy had been using. The iPad tested positive for nickel as well, according to the report.

The solution? To use one of Apple's own Smart Cases which cover the entire tablet rather than the Smart Cover which over protects the screen. After using the Smart Case, the boy's condition improved significantly.

The Washington Post has also cited several other stories from various forums, websites and newspaper which it claims suggest that this is not an isolated incident. however there have also been several reports of similar issues with other electronics devices, suggesting this is not an issue just affecting Apple products.

Apple has not commented on the issue thus far.