Contact dermatitis induced by the use of latex gloves in employees of a university hospital

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.1592532214099

• Palavras-chave: Contact dermatitis, Latex, RAST, IgE

• Keywords: Contact dermatitis, Latex, RAST, IgE

• Abstract:

  Rationale: Latex sensitivity has been around for over 70 years and is still very prevalent. The use of latex gloves for healthcare procedures is the main reason for the appearance of allergic reactions. Contact dermatitis induced by latex is a disease of great impact on the worker's life and an important cause of expenses for the employer. The blood RAST test is the most indicated test to measure specific IgE. The present study aims to evaluate the frequency of latex contact dermatitis cases in a tertiary care hospital.

  Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study, where employees of a university hospital were evaluated for the presence of signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis secondary to the use of latex gloves. Symptomatic patients underwent latex-specific IgE antibody testing (RAST).

  Results: A total of 483 employees who wear latex gloves while working were evaluated. 42 (8.7%) reported symptoms of contact dermatitis, with six (14.3%) employees having a positive RAST result.

  Discussion: Long periods of exposure to latex proteins, as in the use of procedure gloves containing the agent, and the presence of talc in them can trigger or potentiate skin lesions. The best option is to avoid contact with gloves or change them to talc-free and latex-free gloves.