[Contact dermatitis caused by acrylates among 8 workers in an elevator factory].
BACKGROUND
Acrylates are widely used low-molecular-weight substances, initially introduced in industry in the 1930s and subsequently applied also in medicine and the home. One of their main features is the ability to undergo polymerization. The most commonly used acrylic compounds are cyanoacrylates, methacrylates, and acrylates.


OBJECTIVE
To confirm suspicion of occupational disease in a group of workers in an elevator factory.


METHODS
We studied 8 patients with dermatitis of the hands and finger pads. In their work, the patients came into contact with acrylates. Patch testing was applied with an acrylate panel (BIAL-Aristegui, Bilbao, Spain).


RESULTS
Seven of the patients (87. 5%) had a positive result with 1% ethylene glycol dimethacrylate. Positive


RESULTS
were also observed for 2% hydroxyethyl methacrylate (5 patients, 62. 5%), 1% triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (4 patients, 50%), 10% ethyl methacrylate monomer (3 patients, 37. 5%), 10% methyl methacrylate monomer (2 patients, 25%), 1% ethyl acrylate (1 patient, 12. 5%), and 0. 1% acrylic acid (1 patient, 12. 5%).


CONCLUSIONS
We highlight the strong sensitizing capacity of acrylates and the importance of taking all necessary preventive measures in industries where these substances are used. Such measures should include avoidance of contact with the product in cases where sensitization has been confirmed.
Pérez-Formoso
J L
JL
Instituto de Salud Laboral Asepeyo Cartuja, Sevilla, España. jlpformoso@gmail.com <jlpformoso@gmail.com>
de Anca-Fernández
J
J
Maraví-Cecilia
R
R
Díaz-Torres
J M
JM
D000179:Acrylates / Q000633:toxicity*; D000328:Adult; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis*
D000179:Acrylates