Principali caratteristiche dell’allergia al lattice. Prevenzione ed emergenza clinica

The use of latex containing medical products caused in the last twenty years a boost in the frequency of NRL (Natural Rubber Latex) allergy. This disease represents an important issue among health workers since these products are still widely used, even though the awareness of this phenomenon has increased. The dental practitioner must know and must be able to recognise clinical manifestations of NRL allergy that can affect both patients and workers, as well as patients at increased risk. This article reports main clinical manifestations of latex allergy, together with preventive measures and emergency treatment. A case is also reported to show the difficulties in controlling the exposure to NRL contaminated powder in a clinical environment. The case, characterised by some diagnostic difficulties, allowed us to describe, some simple preventive measures that can avoid serious problems when dealing with allergic patients.