Naturlatexallergie

As a consequence of AIDS prevention strategies, the use of powdered disposable latex gloves in hospitals and private medical practices has increased conspicuously in the past 10 years, and allergic reactions to natural latex have become a frequently observed problem. The clinical picture of type I allergies (immediate hypersensitivity) to natural latex ranges from slight, local allergic symptoms (urticaria, rhinitis, and conjunctivitis) to asthmatic complaints up to severest anaphylactic reactions. In addition to health care employees, patients are being affected with an increasing tendency during a variety of surgical and other medical interventions. Due to its enormous hygienic and economic significance, natural latex has become one of the most frequently studied sources of allergies. Efforts were undertaken to identify the causes and triggering factors, to develop diagnostic tools and continue to improve upon them, and to establish preventive measures and implement them successfully.