Effects of powder on infection risks and associated mechanisms.

This paper examines the release of Tumour necrosis factor alpha, (TNFa) interleukin 1, eicosanoids, and hydrogen peroxide from macrophages exposed to glove starch particles. Studies are described which show that T-cell responses are potently activated by glove powder products leading to the release and formation of high amounts of pro-inflammatory mediators, ultimately resulting in adverse clinical consequences such as starch peritonitis or adhesions.