Occupational Medicine 2007 57(3):230; doi:10.1093/occmed/kql172
© The Author 2007. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oxfordjournals.org
British Association of Dermatologists: Latex Allergy
Although the exact incidence of immediate allergic reaction
resulting from exposure to natural latex is not known, it is
thought that
1% of the general population is affected rising
steeply to a 10% sensitization rate in health care workers.
One study has found that 7.5% of doctors and 5.6% of nurses
working in surgical departments were allergic to latex. Higher
rates are found in people with pre-existing hand dermatitis
although allergic reactions are much less common. Understanding
and raising awareness of latex allergy may clearly, therefore,
be an important responsibility for many occupational physicians,
not only those dealing with health care staff but also in employment
groups such as hairdressers, estates and domestic staff. Although
recent use of so-called ‘low-protein powder-free’
gloves has led to a marked reduction in the number of health
care workers presenting with suspected latex allergy, there
remains a legal duty on employers to eliminate the risk by substituting
to other glove materials where appropriate. The Health and Safety
Executive's policy is that ‘single use, disposable natural
rubber latex gloves may be used where a risk assessment has
identified them as necessary. When they are used they must be
low-protein and powder-free’.
The British Association of Dermatologists has developed a website designed to be an in-depth resource for anyone who has an interest in the condition, whether they are a patient, physician, health care establishment or interested observer. It is freely available to anyone in the world who has Internet access. Registration is not required.
This is a very detailed site comprehensively dealing with a wide range of issues including the history of latex allergy, diagnosis, prevention and treatment. There are sections on more practical issues including the avoidance of latex in common settings and choice of alternative gloves. There is also a detailed section with 25 frequently asked questions and a comprehensive glossary. It is worth noting that a link is given to the UK Latex Allergy Support Group (http://www.lasg.co.uk/contact.htm) which is happy to give advice to any health care professional regarding latex allergy issues. Physicians caring for latex-sensitive persons must help to raise awareness of the problem and assist in developing protocols for their safe care. Latex-sensitized persons need to be educated about the latex content of common objects. This site therefore is a useful educational starting point for both professionals and patients.
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Of general
interest to occupational physicians—should be ‘bookmarked’
(added to favourites).
David Haldane
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