Powder, surface chemical residues, bacterial endotoxin contamination, ethylene oxide sterilization residuals, fit and length of use are several factors associated with irritant contact dermatitis; glove manufacturing chemicals such as accelerators and antioxidants have been associated with Type IV allergic contact dermatitis, and natural rubber latex proteins have been associated with Type I hypersensitivity. Choosing gloves …

What causes glove reactions? Read More »

There are three known glove-associated reactions: Type I immediate type hypersensitivity is an allergic reaction associated with proteins found in natural rubber latex (NRL). This allergic response usually manifests from minutes to an hour after exposure and is associated only with genetically predisposed individuals. Type IV hypersensitivity (also known as delayed type hypersensitivity, allergic contact …

What are the types of glove-associated reactions? Read More »

In order to reduce the potential for glove associated reactions, wear gloves that are low in residual chemicals generally and chemical contact sensitisers specifically, and low in NRL allergens (if gloves are natural rubber latex). Select powder-free gloves to reduce reactions that can be associated with the powder such as irritant dermatitis. Some published reports …

How can the possibility of acquiring a glove-associated reaction be reduced? Read More »

There is no perfect glove. Latex proteins are inherent to natural rubber latex. Chemicals are necessary to manufacture both synthetic and natural rubber latex gloves. Latex proteins and glove manufacturing chemicals are removed during production steps that include, but are not limited to, multiple rinses, leaching and chlorination. While each of these steps, if used, …

Is there a glove which is 100% free from any latex protein or chemical residues that may cause some sort of reaction? Read More »

Powder-free gloves undergo an intensive leaching and washing process in order to ensure that the leachable protein level is as low as possible. However, when using natural rubber latex (NR) gloves it is not possible to eliminate the exposure to allergenic proteins completely and there is no defined safe limit. Consequently, as part of risk …

Is there a limit to the protein content of latex gloves? Read More »

A Type I reaction to latex gloves is caused by the naturally occurring protein allergens found in raw latex. Proteins that are very similar to latex allergens can be recognised by latex specific IgE antibodies. An allergy to the cross-reactive (similar) allergens in the items listed below may trigger an allergic reaction to latex proteins …

What foods and plants are cross-reactive with latex allergens? Read More »

Scientific studies provide evidence that the greater the overall exposure to an allergy-causing substance, the greater the risk of sensitisation in genetically predisposed individuals. Reduced exposure to natural rubber latex allergenic proteins has been reported to be associated with decreased allergenic response. Therefore, in the healthcare profession, it is important to select natural rubber latex …

Why is a reduced level of total allergenic protein important? Read More »

As with most allergies, researchers have not been able to determine the exact level of natural rubber latex protein exposure, or how many exposures, will cause a genetically capable individual to become allergic and to begin expressing symptoms. There is scientific consensus that reduced allergenic protein levels will lower the potential for both sensitisation of …

Is there a specific natural rubber latex protein level that can cause an allergy? Read More »

There are no treatments commercially available to cure a latex allergy. Topical steroids and oral antihistamines may temporarily reduce some latex allergy symptoms. Bronchodilators or steroids may be prescribed to treat symptoms. Individuals who suspect they are allergic to natural rubber latex (Type I) need to be diagnosed and treated by their physician, and are …

Can natural rubber latex allergies be treated or cured? Read More »

Currently, there is no way to predict who will, or will not, develop an allergy to natural rubber latex. Some population groups may have an increased risk for latex sensitisation. These groups include, but are not limited to: Atopic individuals. Individuals with a family history of atopy. Individuals with occupational exposure. Individuals requiring repeated surgical …

Who is at risk for developing a Type I hypersensitivity to natural rubber latex? Read More »