Latex sensitization in dental students using powder-free gloves low in latex protein:a cross-sectional study.
In Germany, employers must provide low-protein, powder-free gloves. This study was carried out to determine the current prevalence of latex sensitization in dental students using these gloves and to compare our results with a study of the same design dating from 1990/1991 at our university. A cross-sectional study was performed by questionnaire, prick testing and determination of specific IgE antibodies. 226 of 403 dental students underwent prick testing with a panel of 8 aero-allergens, 1 commercially available latex extract and 5 high-ammonia accelerator-free latex fluids. 39 of 226 dental students (17.3%) had a positive prick test response to at least 1 of the 6 latex substances tested. The prick test positivity was similar in preclinical education (semester 1-6) and in clinical education (semester 7-10), at 17.1% and 17.4%, respectively. In 9 of 32 persons with positive prick tests, specific IgE antibodies to latex could be detected. Within the past 10 years, prick test positivity increased from 8.7% to 17.3%. 14 students (6.2%) reported a history of glove intolerance, 3 of them (1.3%) showing a positive prick test to latex. By the use of low-protein, powder-free gloves less students with glove intolerance were observed. The observed reactions to between 1 and 3 of 6 latex substances tested may indicate a decrease in intensity and spectrum of sensitization. Additionally non-occupational sensitization may be of importance.
Schmid
Klaus
K
Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine of the University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany. klaus.schmid@rzmail.uni-erlangen.de
Christoph Broding
Horst
H
Niklas
Dietrich
D
Drexler
Hans
H
D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D005932:Gloves, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007840:Latex / Q000276:immunology*; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008297:Male; D010328:Patch Tests / Q000379:methods; D011506:Proteins / Q000276:immunology*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D013335:Students, Dental / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
D007840:Latex; D011506:Proteins