Natural Rubber Latex Allergy Among Health Care Workers: Significant Reduction of Sensitization and Clinical Relevant Latex Allergy After Introduction of Powder-free Latex Gloves

Abstract

RATIONALE: An IgE mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) is a serious health problem. Health care workers are especially at risk due to their frequent contact with rubber gloves. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of NRL sensitization and clinical NRL allergy, among operating room employees, before and ten years after the introduction of non powdered NRL gloves. (1998/2009)METHODS: Surgical NRL glove wearing operating room employees were asked to participate in a cross sectional study at two occasions (1998/2009). Characteristics and work related respiratory allergy symptoms were gathered by means of a questionnaire. Skin prick tests with allergen extracts were performed including latex extract(s) and cross-reacting foods such as kiwi, avocado, banana and common inhalant allergens.RESULTS: In 2009 and in 1998, respectively 187 and 163 employees were eligible to participate in the study. The two groups were comparable concerning e.g. age, gender and job characteristics. In 2009 the prevalence of sensitization was significantly lower compared to 1998 (3.9 % versus 14.1 %). Also clinical relevant NRL allergy was significantly less present in 2009 compared to 1998 (2.2 % versus 9.8%). Atopy was significantly associated with the development of sensitization to NRL.CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a clear indication that the introduction of non powdered latex gloves in 1998 is responsible for the reduction in prevalence of latex sensitization and clinical latex allergy. RATIONALE: An IgE mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) is a serious health problem. Health care workers are especially at risk due to their frequent contact with rubber gloves. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of NRL sensitization and clinical NRL allergy, among operating room employees, before and ten years after the introduction of non powdered NRL gloves. (1998/2009) METHODS: Surgical NRL glove wearing operating room employees were asked to participate in a cross sectional study at two occasions (1998/2009). Characteristics and work related respiratory allergy symptoms were gathered by means of a questionnaire. Skin prick tests with allergen extracts were performed including latex extract(s) and cross-reacting foods such as kiwi, avocado, banana and common inhalant allergens. RESULTS: In 2009 and in 1998, respectively 187 and 163 employees were eligible to participate in the study. The two groups were comparable concerning e.g. age, gender and job characteristics. In 2009 the prevalence of sensitization was significantly lower compared to 1998 (3.9 % versus 14.1 %). Also clinical relevant NRL allergy was significantly less present in 2009 compared to 1998 (2.2 % versus 9.8%). Atopy was significantly associated with the development of sensitization to NRL. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a clear indication that the introduction of non powdered latex gloves in 1998 is responsible for the reduction in prevalence of latex sensitization and clinical latex allergy.