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Allergic Contact Dermatitis — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardInflammatory DermatosesAllergic Contact DermatitisSCE Dermatology

A dental nurse develops fingertip dermatitis and recurrent eyelid swelling after using a home gel-nail kit. Patch testing is positive to 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. Which counselling point is most important?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: EAvoid nail acrylates and notify occupational health about dental exposure

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · A = shown as B · D = shown as C · C = shown as D · B = shown as E

B is correct. Incompletely cured gel and acrylic nail products are important sources of methacrylate sensitisation. Allergen transferred by the hands can explain eyelid disease, while a dental worker may encounter related uncured acrylates in resins and adhesives. Nail exposure should stop and occupational-health or specialist advice should address product ingredients, cross-reactivity and suitable controls. Paraphenylenediamine is unrelated, professional application does not guarantee zero exposure, and ordinary disposable nitrile gloves are permeable over time and cannot be described as complete protection. The diagnosis may also affect future dental devices, bone cement, glucose sensors or other medical adhesives, which should be disclosed to treating teams.

Reference: BAD artificial-nail acrylate allergy warning: https://www.bad.org.uk/dermatologists-issue-warning-about-uk-artificial-nail-allergy-epidemic