any info on hydrolysed corn starch used in manufacture of latex?

09/25/08

aliceanne

for a long time, I thought I was allergic to latex, first experiencing dermatitis, then Type IV reaction on exposure, now what seems to be Type I reaction. IgE for latex sensitivity was negative. I recently had a severe reaction to bubble wrap, did some research, and am trying to connect either hydrolysed corn starch or polychloroprene, another substance used in the manufacture of latex products. Until developing symptoms, I was clueless about latex allergies, asthma, etc., so I know it's not "in my head" Can anyone work with the info provided or add to it? This is affecting my work, my future work (in medicine) and possibly my mental state, but I know I'm not crazy, just very upset. NOTE: The only other allergies I have are to metals, as thimerisol and nickel, possibly others, but I'm not sure.

Report Abuse

Answers (1)

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Kathi MacNaughton

Hi Alice Anne,

I'm sure your symptoms are NOT in your head. So be persistent until you get the answers' you're seeking, OK? I did an internet search and found this article on latex gloves and hydrolyzed corn starch:

http://www.lspinc.com/fg/Laboratory_Gloves_Article.htm

I can't vouch for its reliablility, but it does talk about hydrolyzed corn starch being used to "powder" the gloves so they're easier to put on. Is that something you know you are allergic to? Is that why you asked about it?

Here is another very detailed article with an expert opinion on the ins and outs of latex allergy:

http://www.worldwidewounds.com/2001/october/Phillips/EC-expert-committee-on-latex-allergy.html

One thing I found interesting is that it says that the IgE test is not as reliable for detecting latex sensitization as a skin prick test is. So you might want to get a second opinion on whether you have a latex allergy.

To your health,

Kathi