Polymethyl Methacrylate Toxicity- Effects and Treatment

Introduction:

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic polymer widely used in various applications like resins, adhesives, and coatings. It also produces plastic products, such as toys, storage containers, and automotive parts. PMMA is generally considered to be a safe and non-toxic material. However, exposure to PMMA dust or fumes may cause respiratory irritation, and contact with the skin or eyes may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Respiratory effects have also been reported in humans following short-term and long-term inhalation exposure.

What Are Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Uses in Medicine and Dentistry?

• Dental Fillings: PMMA is often used in tooth-colored filling materials, which are used to fill cavities in teeth.

• Dental Crowns: PMMA can also be used to create dental crowns, which are used to cover and protect damaged teeth.

• Prosthetics: PMMA is often used to create prosthetic devices, such as artificial limbs, joints, and other body parts.

• Bone Cement: PMMA is used to produce bone cement that acts as a space filler to hold the implant against the bone.

• Drug Delivery: PMMA particles are used as adjuvants for vaccines and carriers of antibiotics and antioxidants via different routes of administration.

• Contact Lenses: PMMA is used to manufacture contact lenses and eyeglass frames.

• Orthodontic Retainers: PMMA is used to create orthodontic retainers, which are used to hold teeth in place after orthodontic treatment.

• Dental Splints: PMMA is also used to create dental splints, which are used to stabilize loose teeth or to protect teeth after oral surgery.

In general, PMMA is a versatile material with many uses in medicine and dentistry due to its strength, durability, and ability to be molded into various shapes.

Who Are at Risk of Polymethyl Methacrylate Toxicity?

Exposure to methyl methacrylate occurs through skin and inhalation routes. People who work in industries that manufacture or use PMMA, such as the construction and plastics industries, may be at risk of exposure to PMMA. In addition, doctors, nurses, dentists, dental technicians, and people who use medical procedures involving PMMA, such as joint replacement surgery, may be at risk of exposure.

What Are the Effects of PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) Toxicity?

PMMA toxicity can have acute and chronic effects. Acute consequences of PMMA toxicity may be immediate or short-term, occurring after a single exposure or a short period. Long-term chronic effects may occur after prolonged or repeated exposures to PMMA.

Acute Effects of PMMA Toxicity

The potential acute effects of PMMA toxicity may vary depending on the route of exposure and the amount of PMMA to which an individual is exposed.

In general, acute effects of PMMA toxicity may include

• Respiratory Symptoms: Inhalation of PMMA dust may cause respiratory irritation and symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

• Skin Irritation: Skin contact with PMMA products may cause irritation, redness, and itching.

• Eye Irritation: PMMA dust or particles in the air may cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing.

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Ingestion of PMMA particles may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Chronic Effects of PMMA Toxicity

• Respiratory Problems: Prolonged or repeated inhalation of PMMA dust or fumes may cause respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis (recurrent productive cough that lasts for three months or more) and lung irritation.

• Dermatitis: Prolonged or repeated skin contact with PMMA products may cause dermatitis, a type of skin irritation characterized by redness, itching, and rash.

What Are the Preventive Measures to Be Taken for PMMA Toxicity?

• Use Protective Clothing and Equipment: People who work in industries that manufacture or use PMMA should wear appropriate clothing and equipment, such as gloves, respirators, and eye protectors, to minimize the risk of exposure.

• Follow Proper Handling and Disposal Procedures: Proper handling and disposal of PMMA products can help prevent accidental exposure. This may include washing hands after handling PMMA products, keeping PMMA products away from food and drink, and disposing of PMMA products properly.

• Use Ventilation: Using ventilation systems or fans to circulate air and remove PMMA dust and fumes can help reduce the risk of exposure.

• Follow Label Instructions: It is important to follow the label instructions for PMMA products to ensure they are used safely.

• Consider Alternative Products: Use alternative products that do not contain PMMA.

What Are the Precautionary Measures for PMMA Exposure?

If PMMA particles are swallowed,

• One should immediately drink plenty of water to help in the excretion of the toxic elements from the body at the earliest.

• The poison control or a healthcare provider should be called for advice on further steps and precautions.

• One should avoid induced vomiting unless advised to do so by a healthcare provider or poison control.

If the exposure is through the skin–

• All contaminated clothing, including footwear, should be removed.

• One should flush their skin and hair under running water.

• One should seek medical attention immediately in case of severe irritation.

If inhaled–

• If dust is inhaled, the person should go to a non-contaminated area.

• The patient should blow their nose to ensure clear passage of breathing.

How Is PMMA Toxicity Treated?

The treatment of PMMA toxicity depends on the symptoms and severity of the reaction. If the reaction is mild, treatment may not be necessary, and the symptoms may resolve independently. In more severe cases, treatment may include medications to manage the symptoms, such as antihistamines for allergic reactions or pain relievers for inflammation. Hospitalization and supportive care may be necessary if the reaction is severe or life-threatening.

In case of PMMA exposure or reactions or if the individual is concerned about the potential of its toxicity, one should speak with a healthcare professional. This helps the doctors to have a better understanding of the condition and come up with an appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion:

PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) is a synthetic polymer used in various medical and dental applications, including bone cement and contact lenses. It is generally considered a safe material, but like any foreign substance, it can cause adverse reactions in some people. PMMA toxicity is rare, and most reactions are mild, but severe reactions can also occur. The treatment of PMMA toxicity depends on the symptoms and severity of the reaction and may include medications to manage the symptoms, hospitalization, and supportive care. If a person has had a reaction to PMMA or is concerned about its potential toxicity, one should speak with a healthcare professional.