Contact Dermatitis to Diabetes Medical Devices

Skin adverse reactions to diabetes medical devices have been reported frequently over recent years. Adhesives attaching glucose sensors and continuous insulin infusion sets to the skin are proven to cause both allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis in patients with diabetes mellitus. Several allergens contained in adhesives and/or parts of medical devices are documented to cause allergic contact dermatitis, with acrylate chemicals being the most common culprit-especially isobornyl acrylate (IBOA), but also 2,2'-methylenebis(6-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) monoacrylate or cyanoacrylates. Epoxy resin, colophonium and nickel were also identified as causative allergens. However, repetitive occlusion, maceration of the skin and resulting disruption of the skin barrier seem to have an impact on the development of skin lesions as well. The purpose of this study is to highlight the burden of contact dermatitis triggered by diabetes medical devices and to show possible mechanisms responsible for the development of contact dermatitis in a group of diabetic patients.

Automated summary

Skin adverse reactions to diabetes medical devices, particularly adhesive components, have become a frequent concern. Allergic and irritant contact dermatitis have been observed due to allergens present in adhesives or medical device parts, primarily acrylate chemicals such as isobornyl acrylate (IBOA) and epoxy resin, as well as colophonium and nickel. Additionally, repetitive occlusion and maceration of the skin contribute to the development of skin lesions. This study aims to highlight the burden of contact dermatitis caused by diabetes medical devices and explore potential mechanisms in diabetic patients.