Contact allergy to an epoxy reactive diluent: 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether.

Abstract

3 female workers in a brush factory developed contact allergy from a 2-component epoxy glue containing epoxy resin (37% w/w), reactive diluents: i.e., 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDGE) 3%, glycidyl ethers of aliphatic alcohols (Epoxide 8) 0.03% and phenyl glycidyl ether (PGE) 0.01%; and inert fillers. All 3 patients were positive to the resin component of the glue and to BDDGE, indicating that BDDGE was the main allergen. 2 of the patients reacted to PGE, but none to the 3rd reactive diluent (Epoxide 8) in the glue. 2 of the patients did not react to epoxy resin, indicating that BDDGE may be an even stronger sensitizer in humans than epoxy resin, and that it does not cross-react with epoxy resins. Permeation studies revealed that BDDGE penetrates disposable PVC and rubber gloves in less than 30 min; thus, contaminated gloves should be replaced immediately. Reactive diluents should be included in patch test series if contact allergy to epoxy products is suspected.

• Authors: R Jolanki, T Estlander, L Kanerva
• Journal: Contact dermatitis (Contact Dermatitis) Vol. 16 Issue 2 Pg. 87-92 (Feb 1987) ISSN: 0105-1873 [Print] England
• PMID: 2952443 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Butylene Glycols
• Dermatologic Agents
• 1,4-bis(2,3-epoxypropoxy)butane

Topics

• Adult
• Butylene Glycols (poisoning)
• Dermatitis, Occupational (chemically induced, prevention & control)
• Dermatologic Agents (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Hand Dermatoses (chemically induced, prevention & control)
• Humans
• Patch Tests
• Permeability
• Protective Clothing