Current Opinion in Allergy & Clinical Immunology

Accession Number<strong>00130832-200410000-00012</strong>.
AuthorHamann, Curtis P; Rodgers, Pamela A; Sullivan, Kim M
InstitutionSmartHealth, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
TitleOccupational allergens in dentistry.[Miscellaneous]
SourceCurrent Opinion in Allergy & Clinical Immunology. 4(5):403-409, October 2004.
AbstractPurpose of review: Dental professionals and their physicians frequently do not recognize, accurately diagnose or appropriately manage occupational allergies. Dental allergen identification, diagnostics and practical avoidance strategies are summarized in this review.

Recent findings: Methacrylates, natural rubber latex proteins, rubber glove allergens, and glutaraldehyde are the predominant allergens in dentistry. Reactions range from cell-mediated contact allergy to urticaria and occupational asthma.

Summary: Despite recent advances in allergen characterization and increased awareness of selected allergens, treatment of occupational allergies can be improved. Better information and improved cooperation between dental workers and their clinicians is needed.

(C) 2004 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.