Latex allergy has become an epidemic among workers who have frequent exposure to latex gloves.
I.Occupations and populations at risk for latex allergy
A.Healthcare workers
1.Nurses and nursing assistants
2.Doctors
3.Lab personnel
4.Dentists and dental hygienists
5.Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
B.Patients
1.History of multiple surgeries
2.Frequent urogenital procedures
3.Spina bifida
4.Asthma or other allergies
C.Other workers with frequent exposure to latex gloves
1.Beauticians
2.Food service workers
3.Environmental services workers
4.Firefighters
5.Police
6.Auto mechanics
7.Painters
8.People working in latex manufacturing
II.Reasons for increased prevalence of latex allergy
A.Universal Precautions instituted in 1987
1.Increased glove use
2.New methods of glove manufacturing
B.Latex considered barrier of choice against blood borne diseases
III.Products that contain latex
A.Medical
B.Household
C.Foods that can cause cross-reactions
D.Latex-free alternatives
IV.Types of reactions associated with latex allergy
A.Contact dermatitis
1.Cause
2.Symptoms
B.Type IV hypersensitivity
1.Cause
2.Symptoms
C.Type I hypersensitivity
1.Cause
2.Symptoms
V.Methods used to diagnose latex allergy
A.History and physical
B.RAST test
C.Skin prick test
D.Patch test
VI.Treatment for latex allergy
A.Allergy shots contraindicated
B.Avoidance of latex
C.Current research
VII.Preventing latex allergy
A.Recognize symptoms
B.Hereditary component
VIII.Legislation
A.Government agencies
B.Professional associations
