Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis Caused by 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (2-HEMA) in a New Dentin Adhesive

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Abstract
Three dental nurses and three dentists developed allergic contact dermatitis from a dentin adhesion promoter system. This new commercial system (Scotchbond 2 Dental Adhesive System) patented by 3M Corporation (St Paul, MN) features two products, Scotchprep Dentin Primer and Scotchbond 2 Light Cure Dental Adhesive. The putative allergen in the former is 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2-HEMA), and in the latter both 2-HEMA and an epoxy acrylate, BIS-GMA. The patients were tested with a (meth)acrylate series, a dental series, and their “own” components. Each patient's patch test reactions to 2-HEMA and components of the dentin adhesion promoter system were positive. None of the patients reacted to BIS-GMA or any other epoxy acrylate. Previous observations among dental personnel indicate that allergy to acrylate has a poor prognosis; relapses occur constantly, even causing patients to change occupation. Dental personnel should be informed about the allergenicity of the “newer” acrylates. Appropriate preventive measures, including no-touch techniques and protective gloves, should be used.

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