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ABSTRACT
* Occupational exposure to natural rubber latex has sensitized 10% to 17% of health care personnel in Europe and the United States. The increased incidence of latex allergy is believed to be a direct result of the implementation of standard precautions.
* The purpose of this literature review is to examine latex allergy studies and discuss the emerging problem of latex allergy in health care personnel. Latex composition, prevalence, clinical manifestations, and populations at risk also are discussed. AORN J 78 (Sept 2003) 409-426.
It is important to be aware of the seriousness of latex allergy and understand the risk factors leading to this devastating and potentially deadly allergy. Health care personnel must be well informed about the history of latex allergy and its implications in the health care field so they can protect their patients, latex-sensitized colleagues, and themselves. Latex allergies initially were identified in pediatric populations; however, with the implementation of standard precautions, latex allergy and sensitivity has become increasingly prevalent in health care personnel.1 The main source of health care workplace exposure is the use of powdered gloves.1 Currently, the only known treatment for latex allergy is cessation of exposure.1
This literature review examines research studies regarding the prevalence of latex allergy among health care personnel as a result of increased exposure to latex products. It identifies latex composition; types of latex allergy, including signs and symptoms; and populations at greatest risk. It also addresses diagnostic testing procedures and preventive measures.
BACKGROUND
Natural rubber latex is derived from the white, milky sap of rubber trees that are grown commercially in southeastern Asia, primarily Malaysia, and West Africa. Its use in the medical field is pervasive. Latex gloves are the latex product most frequently used in the health care field. They have excellent tactile properties, low penetration and leakage rates, durability, and low cost. When latex gloves are manufactured, chemicals, curing agents, and accelerators are added to give gloves these desired properties. The allergic response to latex generally is a reaction to the protein in latex or the chemicals used in the manufacturing process.2 Studies have found more than 200 latex proteins exist on both the inside and outside of gloves.3
The most common cause of latex sensitization and allergic reactions...