Testing is also available to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis. In this test a special patch containing latex additives is applied to the skin and checked over several days. Occasionally, tests may fail to confirm a worker who has a true allergy to latex, or tests may suggest latex allergy in a worker with no clinical symptoms. Therefore, tests results must be evaluated by a knowledgeable physician. Once a worker becomes allergic to latex, special precautions are needed to prevent exposures during work as well as during medical or dental care.
Many facilities maintain latex-safe areas for affected patients and workers.
Reports about the prevalence of latex allergy vary greatly. This variation is probably due to different levels of exposure and methods for estimating latex sensitization or allergy. Among sensitized workers, a variable proportion have symptoms or signs of latex allergy.