A feature of contact urticaria is that most patients have a history of atopic
disorders, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, oreczema. It is also
obvious that an eluted allergen can more easily penetrate eczematous
skin. The symptoms of contact urticaria may vary from mild itching to severe systemic
reactions like generalized urticaria, facial swelling,
Rhinoconjunctivitis, gastrointestinal and oto-rhino-laryngeal symptoms,
asthma, or even anaphylaxis.
All latex gloves contain allergens, but studies show that some gloves
are extensively leached to lower their protein content to
a level where even latex-sensitive people can wear them.
If a reaction to gloves or glove powder is suspected, a dermatologist
should be consulted to identify the allergen.
If severe systemic reaction is expected, all contact with latex products
should be avoided. This applies to atopic patients with a history of
contact urticaria during surgical procedures, and who may be sensitized to catheters,
cuffs, tubes, rubber sheets, and even rebreathing bellows.
For further information on this subject, contact your Ansell representative.
1. Turjanmaa et al; Exogenous Dermatoses; environmental dermatitis: CRC
Press Boston; Chapter 26, 317.
