Latex allergy in health care workers in Taiwan: prevalence, clinical features.
BACKGROUND
Latex allergy is becoming a major health concern among healthcare workers, of whom approximately 2.8 to 18% are reportedly sensitized.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to analyze the results of a natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy screening program to identify sensitized hospital employees.


METHODS
Nurses (n = 130) assigned to operating theaters and intensive care units were evaluated using a written questionnaire for symptoms of atopy (asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and atopic eczyma), possible reactions to latex gloves, other medical devices and previous surgery. Serological testing for total immunoglobulin E (IgE), latex-specific IgE, and specific-IgE to melon, banana, kiwi, tomato, and chestnut were performed using Pharmacia CAP radioallergosorbent tests. Skin pick test (SPT) for latex allergen was also performed.


RESULTS
Elevated serum total IgE was found in 22(16.9%) of the 130 nurses, 3(16.7%) of whom had increased latex-specific IgE further confirmed by SPT. The overall prevalence of latex allergy was 2.3% (3/130). No cross reactive fruit-allergy was found among the latex-sensitized nurses.


CONCLUSIONS
This study supports the existence of other forms of atopy are related to an increased risk of latex sensitization. The NRL screening program used in this study is feasible for use in identifying latex-sensitized employees.
Wan
Kong-Sang
KS
Department of Pediatrics, Taipei City Hospital, Yangming Branch, No.105 Yu Sheng Road, Shi Lin District, Taipei, Taiwan. gwan1998@gmail.com
Lue
Hung-Chi
HC
D006801:Humans; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000032:analysis* / Q000097:blood; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000097:blood / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000032:analysis*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013624:Taiwan / Q000453:epidemiology
D007073:Immunoglobulin E