A physician should evaluate any exposed person who experiences these symptoms , since further exposure could result in a serious allergic reaction. A diagnosis is made by using the results of a medical history, physical examination, and tests. Taking a complete medical history is the first step in diagnosing latex allergy. However, no FDA-approved materials are yet available to use in skin testing for latex allergy. Skin testing and glove-use tests should be performed only at medical centers with staff who are experienced and equipped to handle severe reactions.
Testing is also available to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis.
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, test results must be evaluated by a knowledgeable physician. Once a person becomes allergic to latex, special precautions are needed to prevent exposures during work as well as during medical or dental care. 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.