Cross-sensitization patterns in acrylate allergies.

Five subjects developed allergic contact dermatitis to one or more acrylate components used in a commercial adhesive tape. Patch testing to acrylic monomers was performed to examine their cross-reaction patterns. Two subjects with broad cross-reactions to acrylates did not react to methyl methacrylate or the alkyl methacrylate that corresponded to the acrylate which induced the sensitization. Methyl methacrylate may not be adequate as a screen for many acrylates used commercially.