Latex: A cause of allergic contact eczema in users of natural rubber gloves

Abstract

Background: Latex is a common cause of contact urticaria in glove users. We recently found that 1.2% of patients attending a contact dermatitis investigation unit had delayed type hypersensitivity to latex as a cause of eczema. Objective: We reassessed the relevant contact allergens in users of natural rubber gloves with hand dermatitis. Particular emphasis was placed on allergens not included in the standard patch test series. Methods: Consecutive natural rubber glove users with hand dermatitis were investigated for the presence of contact dermatitis and urticaria. Results: One hundred seventeen consecutive patients were tested. The American standard series missed 34% and the European 40% of patients with positive patch test reactions to rubber related chemicals. Six percent of patients (20% of those with a positive reaction) demonstrated delayed type hypersensitivity to latex, often in the absence of other relevant contact allergens and contact urticaria to latex. Conclusion: Latex is a relatively common cause of allergic contact eczema in the absence of contact urticaria. Latex should be included in a rubber series for screening patients with hand dermatitis who are glove users.(J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;38:36-42.)