[Allergic contact eczema caused by m-xylylene-diamine in the polyurethane silk production].

We found m-xylylene diamine, a widespread additive in plastics, to be a very potent sensitizer. Patch tests with other diamines revealed in all four patients allergic cross reactions to benzylamine. Two persons had also acquired an additional allergy to ethylenediamine. In a 59-year-old man, the allergic contact dermatitis provoked the first manifestation of an atopic dermatitis.