Latex allergy: historical perspective.
The widespread use of powdered latex gloves, following the institution of universal precautions in 1987, increased the occurrence of a host of adverse reactions to natural rubber latex (NRL). Although the most common reactions are irritant or allergic dermatitis reactions to manufacturing chemicals, a spectrum of type I IgE-mediated reactions to NRL proteins are of great concern. IgE-mediated reactions range from contact urticaria to occupational asthma and anaphylaxis, resulting in significant morbidity and potential mortality. At-risk populations include highly exposed groups like health care workers and certain patient groups requiring extensive medical treatment. A significant complicating factor is the association with clinically significant adverse reactions to certain foods because of allergen cross-reactivity. Institution of policies to use only low-protein, powder-free gloves, has resulted in a dramatic reduction of visits to occupational health departments and workmen's compensation claims due to occupational asthma.
Sussman
Gordon L
GL
Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, 202 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, Ont., Canada M4V1R2. gsussman@rogers.com
Beezhold
Donald H
DH
Liss
Gary
G
D005512:Food Hypersensitivity / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000266:history; D005932:Gloves, Surgical / Q000266:history*; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000266:history*; D016635:Universal Precautions / Q000266:history