Delayed type allergic reaction following the use of nonlatex rubber dam during endodontic treatment

To describe the development of a delayed type allergic reaction 24 h following the use of nonlatex rubber dam during endodontic treatment. The symptoms were alleviated with adequate medication; however, the patient rejected any further analysis.

In recent years, allergic reactions because of latex rubber dam and gloves have received more attention. Nonlatex products are advocated in clinical use in cases where the patient presents an allergic background. Although rare, adverse reactions may be encountered even with these products. In this article, a very rare case is presented in which a patient developed signs of allergy 24 h after the utilization of nonlatex rubber dam and gloves during endodontic treatment. Signs including visible redness on the mucosa, submucosal oedema and desquamation in the vestibular mucosa were observed. With proper medication, the signs and symptoms were alleviated. Although the patient was referred to an allergy specialist for patch testing, she did not accept any further analysis.

This case emphasizes the necessity of precautions during the management of latex-allergic patients in clinical practice. The unusual response encountered in this patient does not undermine the usefulness of nonlatex rubber dam and gloves in sensitive individuals.