Occupational allergy to latex: the magnitude of the problem and its management

Latex allergy continues to be a feature of allergy practice worldwide. In adults, the major exposure is the occupational setting, especially in relation to natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves use by health care workers (HCWs). The most concerning issue of latex allergy in HCWs is the development of occupational asthma in up to 25% or more of the affected subjects, which may not remit with personal avoidance of latex. Multiple investigators, using a variety of methodologies, have succeeded in identifying major immunoglobulin (Ig)E binding allergens; consequently, there has been an improvement in the diagnostic accuracy of NRL sensitization and allergy over the past years. Future development in this area may lead to possible therapeutic agents for sensitized patients. Preliminary studies of primary preventive strategies suggest that avoidance of high-protein, powdered gloves in health care settings can be cost-effective and is associated with a decline in sensitized workers and prevention of new sensitivities.