Nonoccupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis to 4-Acryloylmorpholine in Smartwatch Screen Protectors Glue

Abstract

Background: We recently identified an outbreak of occupational allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) involving workers of a Spanish company selling smartphone protective cases from a glue product. A chemical analysis of one glue sample revealed the presence of 4-acryloylmorpholine among other allergens. The same glue is also used to attach tempered glass protective cases to Apple smartwatches.Objective: Our objective was to describe a case series of nonoccupational consumer ACD from the previously mentioned Apple smartwatch protective case glue.Methods: We evaluated epidemiological and clinical data, as well as patch tests results.Results: Three women were diagnosed with nonoccupational ACD from the adhesive. An annular vesicular inflammatory plaque involving the dorsal aspect of the wrist was initially observed in all. Two of the 3 patients were patch tested with 4-acryloylmorpholine 0.5% with positive strong reactions. Both also strongly reacted to a sample of the glue semiopen tested in a drop of petrolatum. One of them was also positive for various acrylates.Conclusions: 4-Acryloylmorpholine has been identified in an adhesive used to attach protective cases to smartwatches. Nonoccupational ACD have been described to involve consumers of smartwatches. A UV-curable adhesive used to attach protective cases to smartwatches has been considered to be the culprit.

Prognosis and sequelae of meth(acrylate) sensitization in beauticians and consumers of manicure materials

“…One patient recalled reactions to watches which were well tolerated before the diagnosis of ACDMA. Interestingly, nonoccupational‐ACD to one smartwatch screen protector glue has been described to involve patients sensitized to (meth)acrylates and acryloylmorpholine 24,25 ; however, none of our patients recollected exposure to this type of product.…”

“…Glues are other well-known potential acrylate sources, [24][25][26][27][28] Seven patients recalled reactions from glues or materials likely containing glues such as running shoes, plastic watches or clothing silicone pieces. Acrylates were, however, not labelled in the products.…”