Latex Glove Allergy and the Cosmetic Surgeon

Abstract

Allergy to the latex protein in surgical gloves has become a major occupational hazard among physicians and cosmetic surgeons over the last few years. Reactions to latex range from urticaria to contact dermatitis to anaphylaxis. The latex proteins bound to cornstarch powder added as a donning agent can become aerosolized and inhalation of the powder can trigger bronchospasm and/or anaphylaxis. Continued exposure to latex by health care personnel increases the possibility of developing an allergy to the substance. Nonlatex alternatives have been developed to eliminate the problem of latex allergy.