Latex gloves allergy in dental workers, Iran

Dermal-respiratory reactions to latex glove is a common problem and sometimes life threatening. Some of the health related past histories such as hand dermatitis, atopy and food allergy increase the probability of these reaction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate reactions to latex gloves amongst dental workers in military dental health centers. In this cross-sectional descriptive survey, dental workers with minimum three months length of employment and most often use of latex gloves were asked to fill standard questionnaire regarding latex related clinical manifestation and personal medical history and predisposing factors. Those with clinical problems did Skin Prick Test (SPT). In this study 330 personnel were assessed. The mean age and length of employment was 31.6 and 8 years, respectively. The most occupation was dentistry. A total of 232 subjects (70.3%) reported latex gloves-allergic symptoms. 72 (21.8%) of persons have history of atopy and food allergy was seen in 114 (34.5%). 63 (19.1%) of subjects reported history of hand dermatitis. All of these had positive regression with allergic responses. Among 73 (34%) symptom positives, 28 (38%) had positive result of SPT. In this survey, the prevalence of allergic reactions is higher than similar studies, which may be due to type of gloves, lack of preemployment assessments and other factors. Because of relationship between allergic reactions to latex gloves and some medical histories, it seems to be necessary for preemployment evaluation and periodic health surveillance of dental workers.