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Protective gloves in Swedish dentistry: use and side-effects
K Wrangsjö1, L M Wallenhammar, U Ortengren
1Occupational and Environmental Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Norrbacka, Karolinska Sjukhuset, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|July 17, 2001
Summary
Swedish dentists frequently experience glove intolerance, particularly those with hand eczema. IgE-mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) is linked to respiratory symptoms, not just skin irritation.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Dermatology
- Allergology
Background:
- Routine glove use in dentistry increased significantly since the 1980s.
- Prolonged glove use is linked to irritant and allergic reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess glove use and intolerance reactions among Swedish dentists.
- To determine the prevalence of IgE-mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) in dentists reporting glove-related itching.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was sent to 3500 Swedish dentists, with 3083 responses (88% response rate).
- 131 dentists reporting itching underwent clinical examination, skin prick testing (SPT), and serological testing (RAST) for IgE-mediated allergy.
Main Results:
- 23% of dentists reported glove intolerance reactions, more common in females (28%) and younger dentists.
- Hand eczema significantly increased the risk of glove intolerance (54% vs. 20%).
- Latex allergy was confirmed in 11% of dentists with reported itch; respiratory symptoms showed a stronger association with IgE-mediated NRL allergy.
Conclusions:
- Swedish dentists demonstrate high compliance with glove use recommendations.
- Preventive skin care programs are crucial due to frequent intolerance reactions, especially in dentists with hand eczema.
- Screening for NRL sensitization should consider the stronger link between IgE-mediated allergy and respiratory symptoms compared to skin itching.