Statistics on allergic patch test reactions caused by acrylate compounds, including data on ethyl methacrylate

image Acrylate compounds are well-known sensitizers, but there is relatively little data on the sensitizing capacity of various acrylate compounds in humans. image The purpose of the study was to provide data on patch test results obtained with a series of 30 acrylate compounds. Special emphasis was directed to ethyl methacrylate because it is being reviewed in the United States for its safety as a cosmetic ingredient. image One hundred twenty-four patients with a history of exposure to acrylate compounds were patch tested with conventional patch test techniques. image Twenty-three patients showed at least one positive patch test reaction. the three acrylate compounds most often positive were 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (15 positive), 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (14 positive), and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (13 positive). Six patients had an allergic patch test reaction caused by ethyl methacrylate (EMA). image The acrylate compounds that caused the most sensitizations probably are significant contact sensitizers in humans or have a strong tendency to cross-react with sensitizers. Based on a recently proposed classification of contact allergens, EMA can probably be considered a significant human contact allergen. If the exposure to EMA increases, more patients will be sensitized to EMA. Because of cross-reactivity, these persons will also have allergic reactions from other acrylate compounds.