Teratology of Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) in Healthcare Workers

Abstract

Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) is a highly useful and generally “safe” biopolymer that is employed widely in the healthcare industry as a malleable and plastic acrylic material. MMA is used in healthcare treatment, especially in dentistry and orthopedic surgery. MMA may be self-cured, heated, microwaved, or light-cured into hardened acrylic plastic material. Self-curing of the combination of monomer liquid and polymer powder is the most common methodology of using MMA; the mixture undergoes polymerization in an exothermic reaction and hardens into acrylic plastic. The greatest hazard of MMA is inhalation exposure to monomer fumes during mixing and operator use. Additional exposure may occur from inhalation of polymer powder or the dust produced as the acrylic plastic is modified and adapted for its final form. In addition, residual monomer emanates from the hardened acrylic plastic due to incomplete polymerization during the curing process. Research has shown that, although not carcinogenic or mutagenic, MMA exposure reaches and may be toxic to the developing embryo or fetus. In general practice, women are often temporized with MMA products for treatment of optional dental work during their pregnancy. MMA exposure can be controlled by adequate ventilation and other measures to prevent inhalation or skin contact.

Keywords: Methyl Methacrylate( MMA), Acrylic Monomer, Pregnancy, Occupational Exposure, Dentistry, Orthopedic Surgery