Symptoms of ICD are often dry, itchy, cracked, scaly skin, usually on the hands. Redness, swelling, and blistering may also occur. Symptoms are usually limited to the areas covered by the gloves.

 

Allergic contact dermatitis is sometimes called chemical sensitivity dermatitis. It is a response to the chemical accelerants in the latex mentioned above which are referred to as contact sensitizers. Other common contact sensitizers include disinfecting agents and soaps. Technically referred to as Type IV delayed hypersensitivity, CSD appears as a rash with blisters (similar to poison ivy) and usually peaks within 48 hours. People with chronic skin damage are at increased risk and, with repeated contact, progression spreads beyond the border of the gloves.

 

Neither chemical sensitivity dermatitis nor irritant contact dermatitis is a true allergy. True latex allergy, technically named immediate Type I hypersensitivity, can produce severe reactions in workers exposed to latex. Auspiciously, it is much less common than the dermatitis reactions. A Type I reaction is a systemic response caused by repeated exposure to a specific allergen, i.e. the latex proteins. Triggered by exposure to some threshold level, a flood of histamine and other factors are released causing vasodilatation and bronchoconstriction. Symptoms usually begin within minutes of exposure in sensitized persons but, they can occur hours later and be widely varied. Skin flushing, rashes, hives, or itching are examples of mild reactions. Severe reactions include itchy swollen eyes, runny nose, sneezing, scratchy throat, and asthma (difficult breathing, coughing, and wheezing). Very rarely, anaphylactic shock has occurred but this is seldom the first sign of latex allergy.

 

Damaged or broken skin can increase the risk for latex allergy. In many cases, workers contract the dermatitis before developing the latex allergy. Also, a link has been demonstrated between increased susceptibility to latex protein allergy and allergic reactions to certain foods such as avocado, kiwi, banana, tomato, and papaya.

 

The key to preventing long-term health effects is detecting symptoms early. Seek proper medical consultation at the first signs of trouble. Medications are available to treat the symptoms but complete latex avoidance is most effective. Special precautions are necessary to prevent subsequent exposures once a worker develops latex allergy.