Latex allergy: An Under-Rated Health Hazard

Abstract

Dentists and their patients are constantly exposed to many occupational health problems, one amongst them being latex allergy. Studies have shown that healthcare workers (HCW) are three times more prone to latex allergy with the prevalence amongst dental students being 5%. The present paper explores latex allergy in dental professionals, its screening tests and various recent alternatives available in India. Latex is derived from the sap of the rubber tree. In dental practice, latex is found in many dental products like gloves, rubber dam, suction tips etc. Latex allergy develops after repeated exposure to products containing latex through direct skin contact or inhalation of airborne allergens (commonly from powdered gloves). Reactions to latex range from mild irritant contact dermatitis to potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity. Allergy may present as Type I or Type IV hypersensitivity reaction. The incidence of latex allergy may be reduced by using latex alternatives (vinyl, nitrile and neoprene) and powder-free, low-protein gloves. Owing to the potential hazardous impact over the health professionals, early diagnosis and prevention of contact with suspected items is the key to minimize latex allergy.