Minimizing latex exposure and allergy. How to avoid or reduce sensitization in the healthcare setting.
Healthcare professionals with long-term exposure to natural rubber latex products and patients who undergo multiple operations are at high risk for latex allergy. The clinical spectrum of this allergy ranges from self-limited contact urticaria to involvement of multiple organ systems in anaphylaxis. In this article, Dr Muller explores the roots of the latex allergy epidemic and offers insight into the manufacturing process of latex gloves. She also presents a clinical approach to prevent or ameliorate sensitization and manage allergic symptoms.
Muller
Barbara A
BA
University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, BT 1081 GH, 200 Hawkins Dr, Iowa City, IA 52242-1081, USA. barbara-muller@uiowa.edu
D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005932:Gloves, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007840:Latex / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D012307:Risk Factors; D012408:Rubber / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014481:United States
D007840:Latex; D012408:Rubber