Pseudo-latex allergy associated with "latex" paint exposure: a potential cause of iatrogenic disability.

Abstract

We sought to describe outcomes for three health care workers with natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy reporting illness after exposure to latex paint. We undertook a retrospective review of medical and occupational histories, diagnostic, treatment, and work recommendations. Outcomes included lost time, workers compensation indemnity costs, and return to work. None of the paints contained NRL. Cases 1 and 2 initially were misdiagnosed as suffering allergic reactions to NRL, resulting in 7 and 23 months lost time, $15,790 and $139,000 indemnity costs, respectively, and both failing to return to work. Case 3 was correctly diagnosed as not exposed to NRL, with only several lost days, no indemnity costs, and continued to work. The failure to recognize that synthetic paints do not contain NRL can lead to misdiagnosis, inappropriate exposure, and work avoidance recommendations and iatrogenic disability.