Latex Allergy in Dentistry

Abstract

Dental practitioners routinely use gloves made of latex while treating patients. Latex is also seen in masks, eye wear, clinic gowns as well as a constituent of many house hold products and medical devices. Exposure to latex proteins and chemicals associated with these materials can give rise to allergic responses in individuals who are sensitive to NRL proteins. The adverse latex reactions range from contact dermatitis to life threatening anaphylaxis. This article provides the reader with a review of latex allergy which throws light on its clinical presentation, diagnosis, prevention and management.

Keywords

• natural rubber latex
• hypersensitivity
• latex allergy