title: Investigative methods for natural rubber latex allergy in the UK.
abstract: Allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) has become an important health issue in recent years, but little is known about how this condition is investigated by physicians in the UK. This postal questionnaire of British dermatology and allergy specialists shows substantial variation in diagnostic practice, most notably with regard to the utilization and choice of starting dose of commercial latex prick test dilutions, reliance on allergen-specific immunoglobulin E measurement, investigation of associated fruit allergy and provision of resuscitation equipment/method of consent when challenge testing. 17% of responding physicians who investigate for NRL allergy do not perform prick test or glove challenge because of the potential risk of anaphylaxis or lack of resuscitation facilities. 87% of allergy clinic specialists report no reduction in the number of patients presenting as new referrals with suspected NRL allergy. These findings suggest a need for robust guidance to achieve more consistent investigative practice by those dealing with this condition.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK. j.graham.lowe@tuht.scot.nhs.uk
authors.forename: J G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Lowe
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Green
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Nasser
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D017575:Gloves, Protective / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000097:blood; D007840:Latex / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D010328:Patch Tests / Q000379:methods; D012408:Rubber / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000379:methods; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D007840:Latex; D007073:Immunoglobulin E; D012408:Rubber