K. Bhargava, J. White, I. White
Nov 1, 2012
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Influential Citations
22
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Quality indicators
Journal
Contact Dermatitis
Abstract
Cyanoacrylates are commonly used as instant adhesives in many home and commercial applications. With the growing popularity of temporary beauty enhancements, there is exposure to cyanoacrylates from their use with artificial nail, hair and eyelash extensions. They are also used as tissue adhesives for minor wound repair, and in dentistry. Although cyanoacrylates are used directly on the skin, contact sensitization and allergic contact dermatitis are rare. The rapid polymerization and immediate bonding of the cyanoacrylate to the surface keratin is thought to prevent penetration beyond the stratum corneum, and therefore contact with antigen-presenting cells deeper in the epidermis (1). However, in the last three decades, case reports have indicated that cyanoacrylates are able to induce contact allergy. In addition to occupationally related cases, involving hairdressers, cobblers, and nail technicians, consumers of artificial nails have also been affected (2–13). Here, we describe the first report of a consumer with ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate (ECA) allergic contact dermatitis following the use of an eyelash adhesive.