Changing frequency of thiuram allergy in healthcare workers with hand dermatitis

Background Healthcare workers (clinical, allied/paramedical professions and ancillary workers) may have prolonged contact with natural rubber latex devices, particularly in the form of natural rubber latex gloves. Objectives To examine the changing frequency of type IV thiuram allergy in healthcare workers with hand dermatitis over a 16-year period. Methods During the study period, 450 healthcare workers (352 women and 98 men) with hand dermatitis were investigated, and their patch test results were analysed retrospectively. Results On average, a thiuram-positive patch test was noted in 12% of individuals, with a peak incidence of 27% of the patients patch tested in 1994. Comparison of results between 1983-88 and 1989-93 showed a statistically significant increase in the incidence of thiuram-positive patch tests (odds ratio 2.55, 95% confidence interval 1.25-5.20, P = 0.01). Conclusions We have documented a changing frequency of thiuram-positive patch tests in healthcare workers with hand dermatitis since 1983. This map reflect changes in degree of exposure to thiurams in medical gloves during this period.