Latex Allergy - Glossary

British Association of Dermatologists

$Introduction$

$Glossary$

$What is latex allergy?$

$History of latex allergy$

$What things contain latex?$

$How common is latex allergy?$

$What will happen to me if I have an allergic reaction?$

$How is latex allergy diagnosed?$

$Is latex allergy serious?$

$Does latex allergy go away?$

$What can I do to help prevent an allergic reaction to latex?$

$How are allergic reactions to latex treated?$

$How do hospitals deal with latex allergy?$

$What gloves are used in healthcare?$

$What should I do when I visit the dentist?$

$How will latex allergy affect my daily life?$

$Can people with latex allergy also have food allergy?$

$What gloves can I wear if I am allergic to latex?$

$Why is glove powder a problem?$

$Frequently Asked Questions$

$Where can I get further information?$

>> Glossary

Allergen – a substance that causes the immune system to overreact

Allergy – an excessive response to a substance that is normally harmless

IgE antibody - a type of immunoglobulin (protein) made by the body that is involved in Type I allergic reactions

Latex - a milky liquid or ‘sap’ that is produced in nature by many plants in response to injury

Latex allergy – allergy to proteins that are present in natural rubber

Natural rubber – a type of rubber that is made from natural rubber latex (NRL)

Natural rubber latex (NRL) - name given to the ‘sap’ that comes from the Brazilian rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis

Rubber chemical allergy - allergy to chemicals that are used in the manufacture of both natural and synthetic rubber

Synthetic rubber - a type of rubber that is made from petroleum, coal, oil, natural gas, or acetylene

Type I allergy - an allergic reaction that is mediated by IgE antibodies