Otolaryngology Book

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Latex Allergy

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  1. See Also
    1. Allergic Reaction
    2. Contact Dermatitis
    3. Allergic Contact Dermatitis
    4. Contact Urticaria
  2. Epidemiology
    1. Health care personnel: 5-10%
    2. Asymptomatic Latex Allergy: 50%
  3. Types
    1. Skin Irritation (non-immunologic)
      1. Stinging or burning
      2. Pruritus
      3. Skin fissuring
    2. Contact Dermatitis (occurs 24-48h after exposure)
      1. Local erythematous rash in contact with latex
      2. Pruritus
      3. Swelling
      4. Blistering, weeping, or crusting
    3. Systemic Hypersensitivity (potentially fatal)
      1. Occurs with skin, mucosal or even airborne contact
      2. Generalized rash
      3. Urticaria
      4. Pruritus
      5. Eye and nose irritation
        1. Allergic Rhinitis type symptoms
      6. Throat swelling
      7. Respiratory symptoms
        1. Wheezing
        2. Shortness of Breath
        3. Chest tightness
      8. Palpitations
      9. Anaphylaxis
  4. Associated Allergies
    1. Banana Allergy
  5. Prevention
    1. Switch to powder free latex gloves
    2. Use alternatives to latex gloves (Dr Moses' favorites):
      1. Maxim - Sensicare Nitrile Powder Free (non-sterile)
      2. Regent Medical - Biogel Neotech (sterile)
    3. Systemic Hypersensitivity
      1. Requires avoidance of healthcare setting
      2. Career change may be indicated for healthcare worker

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