A Natural History of Latex Allergy and Its Relationship with Health Care Workers

Latex allergy is an important issue in the health care profession as most patient contact involves at least some exposure to protective latex gloves on a daily basis. Although latex glove-allergy was first described among nurses in 1980, allergic reactions to natural rubber began as early as 1927. Japan’s first case was reported in 1992, after which time the prevalence appears to have steadily increased. Recent studies have suggested the rate to be as high as 13.8% among operating room nurses. Individual reactions to latex range from mild hand itching, through to potentially fatal anaphylactic events. Differences in prevalence between various departments also suggest that risk varies from location to location, and between job descriptions. Health care workers are at high risk from this potentially serious disease.