Starch peritonitis--a hazard of surgical glove powder

Starch peritonitis, a granulomatous reacton to surgical glove powder, is reported in four patients. The condition presents as a well defined clinical syndrome, and should perferably be diagnosed clinically to avoid reoperation and the risk of introduction of more starch. Studies show that a mean of 107 mg of starch per pair is present on the outside of Austrailn-made surgical gloves. It is suggested that gloves be rinsed and dried before operation and it is recommended that a warning to this effect be printed on glove packets.