Type IV (Delayed) Hypersensitivity. Allergic Contact (Chemical Sensitivity)
Dermatitis results from exposure to chemicals added to latex during
harvesting, processing or manufacturing. Latex glove products utilize
coagulants, accelerators, antioxidants, emulsifiers, stabilizers,
extenders, colorants, stiffeners, biocides, fragrances, etc.(4) These
chemicals can cause skin reactions similar to those caused by poison ivy.
As with poison ivy, the rash usually begins 24 to 48 hours after contact,
and may progress to oozing skin blisters or may spread away from the area
of skin touched by the latex. This contact urticaria may represent a
transitional stage in a progression between contact dermatitis and
immediate hypersensitivity. Some patients initially develop delayed-type
contact dermatitis, then urticaria, and finally (months to years later)
systemic immediate hypersensitivity.(5)