The objective is to disclose the prevalence and the major types of contact hypersensitivity to latex and its additives in the population of HCP in the Medical University-Sofia, as well as to assess the significance of the risk factors such as age, years of professional exposure to latex products, gender, personal and family history of atopic illness.
Methods: 48 HCP (22 male and 26 female) with different duration of latex exposure were tested for immediate hypersensitivity to latex and delayed hypersensitivity to its additives. Type I (IgE-mediated) allergy to latex protein was investigated by performing prick test procedure with a standardized, commercially available allergen solution. Epicutaneous testing with the most common sensitizers, i.e. thiuram and carba mix was undertaken to evaluate the delayed type hypersensitivity to latex/rubber additives and accelerators. Additionally, “as-is” testing with 8 mm latex glove ring was performed. Patch test with seven descending concentrations (20% to 0.1%) of the irritant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was performed to determine the irritant threshold (irritant dermatitis susceptibility) of the volunteers. 24 hours later, the lowest SLS concentration to which the individual reacted with erythema was defined as the irritant threshold.
Results: The prevalence of immediate hypersensitivity to latex in HCP is 6.5% which is higher compared to that established in the general population. Delayed hypersensitivity to chemical additives that are used in the synthesis of latex items was not observed. Personal atopic illness history was identified as the most serious risk factor for the development of latex allergy.
Conclusions: Our findings contribute to the understanding and the risk factors for contact reactions to latex and its additives in HCP.