Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Microvascular Decompression: Salient Surgical Principles and Technical Nuances
Published on: July 5, 2011
Case report: acute facial swelling in a recreational technical diver
Peter Buzzacott1,2, William K Dolen3, James Chimiak4
1Divers Alert Network, Durham, North Carolina pbuzzacott@dan.org.
Abstract:
A recreational scuba diver wore a second scuba regulator against his face during a scuba dive, attached by an elastic rubber cord necklace. After surfacing, the diver's left face became swollen. Through a process of elimination all other items of scuba equipment were excluded as potential causes. A dive with the same equipment minus the necklace confirmed the involvement of the necklace in the pathogenesis of the hypersensitive reaction. In vitro ImmunoCap IgE assay was positive to latex (1.30 kUa/L), subsequent patch testing for contact dermatitis provoked a reaction for benzophenone-4, (a UV stabalizer) and Fourier Transform Infra Red spectroscopy identified the elastic as ethylene propylene rubber, containing additional unidentified compounds. Allergy to natural rubber latex occurs in as many as 6% of Americans and Australians. Around three million American residents are thought to scuba dive each year. Recreational divers are, therefore, advised to check such necklaces, which are typically worn around the throat, for frayed ends and exposed rubber filaments.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Cerebral Edema l: Introduction

