An Investigation of Latex Sensitivity and Respiratory Complaints in Workers in a Rubber-Based Material Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Objective To present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of latex sensitivity in a workplace that produced rubber-based vehicle seals. Method The serum latex-specific IgE levels, respiratory complaints, PFT, serum interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13 levels of all male workers (n = 108) exposed to latex in the workplace, which produced rubber seals, were compared with the control group (n = 52). Results The rates of latex-specific IgE >0.10 kU/L in the workers and control group were 12.3% and 4.1%, respectively (P = 0.147). There was no difference in IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 levels between latex-specific IgE-positive, and -negative participants. Conclusion Latex sensitivity was higher in workers who used rubber as a raw material than in the control group but it was not statistically significant.