Managing Latex and Adhesive Allergies Before Surgery

Adhesive Sensitivity

Besides latex allergies, some people may have reactions to the adhesive (sticky stuff) on the tape used in surgery. I don't have a latex allergy; however, the last few times I've had procedures, after which they taped me up with adhesive to keep the bandages dry when bathing, I had a reaction. The site became itchy and blistery! Eek. And the last time the nurse gave me very clear instructions: next time you have a procedure tell your doctors that you cannot have adhesive or ask them to find a suitable alternative.

I asked Dr. Clifford Bassett, a NYC allergist about my reaction.

This was his reply: "Dermatitis related to use of adhesive tape and bandages can be from both non-allergic causes of contact dermatitis including irritants which cause skin rash (blisters, etc.) versus allergic contact dermatitis, that is an immune response to a component in the tape adhesive. In the latter, there is usually a very well localized and defined area of redness and local swelling with or without blister formation.

In any event, diagnostic allergy tests need to include allergen patch tests to a variety of standard tests to identify which allergen is causing the reaction, then avoidance and product substitution can take place for optimal care."

So, itchiness, rash and blisters I felt from that medical adhesive may not be caused by an allergy to the adhesive, but if you've experienced anything similar, you should talk to your doctor about testing to be sure.