  Overview
Natural rubber latex is
a common ingredient found in many consumer
products, such as balloons, balls, appliance
cords, hoses, hot water bottles, pacifiers,
swimwear, toys, tires, condoms, rubber
bands and shoes. Latex also can be found
in many medical or dental supplies and
devices, such as masks, gloves, syringes,
catheters, dressings, tape and bandages.
Unlike some consumer goods made from synthetic
(manmade) latex, such as house paint,
natural rubber latex is derived from
a milky substance found in rubber trees
(Hevea brasiliensis).
While many people come in safe contact
with latex-containing products every
day, some susceptible individuals have
developed hypersensitivity to proteins
derived from natural rubber latex, which
can cause allergic reactions.
Causes and Symptoms
Latex allergy generally develops after
repeated exposure to products containing
natural rubber latex. When latex-containing
medical devices or supplies come in contact
with mucous membranes, the membranes
may absorb latex proteins. The immune
system of some susceptible individuals
produces antibodies that react immunologically
with these antigenic proteins.
This is a concern particularly for health
care workers who are constantly exposed
to latex examination or surgical gloves
and other latex-based health care products.
The powder used on latex gloves can absorb
the gloves' latex proteins and cause
increased exposure to latex. In addition,
as the gloves are removed, the powder
may become airborne, coming in contact
with the eyes, nose or mouth.
When exposed to latex proteins, a latex-sensitive
individual, whether a health care worker
or a patient, may experience minor symptoms,
such as hives or nasal congestion. Severe
cases may result in anaphylaxis, a dangerous
systemic reaction that causes a drop
in blood pressure, difficulty breathing,
swelling of the throat, tongue and nose,
and even loss of consciousness and could
be life-threatening if unattended. Emergency
medical attention is needed at the first
sign of anaphylactic reaction.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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