Hypoallergenic gloves.

Hypoallergenic gloves have been introduced in response to the growing problems of occupationally acquired hand dermatitis. Such labelling can, however, be misleading and some gloves contain measurable allergen levels. Hypoallergenic gloves containing natural rubber latex will not address the problem of individuals suffering from latex allergy and their inappropriate use may provoke a potentially life threatening reaction. Regulatory authorities must ensure that manufacturers provide adequate labelling for gloves, with the appropriate warning about their allergen content. Dental health care workers must become more knowledgeable about gloves and staff should be given appropriate advice about the risks of latex sensitisation.