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Biomedical subjects

E M Warshaw

Publications and source records attributed to E M Warshaw.

5 recordsLinked to original sources

Prevalence of evaluation for latex allergy and association with practice characteristics in United States dermatologists: results of a cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND: Natural rubber latex allergy is a potentially life-threatening, immunoglobin E (IgE) mediated reaction. Despite great strides in identification of high-risk groups, methods for diagnosis remain limited in the United States and most evaluations are performed by allergists. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of evaluation for latex allergy and association with practice characteristics in United States dermatologists. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of one third of United States Fellows of the American Academy of Dermatology. RESULTS: The survey response rate was 43%. Of responding dermatologists, 17% stated that they evaluate patients for latex allergy, most commonly with a radioallergosorbent (RAST) or use test. Only 3.6% stated that they perform prick or scratch tests for latex allergy in their office, and most of these dermatologists (86%) prepare their own latex prick test solutions. Evaluation for latex allergy was significantly associated with patch testing, photopatch testing, an interest in contact dermatitis, and number of contact dermatitis books owned, but not with number of years in practice. CONCLUSIONS: Most United States dermatologists do not evaluate patients for latex allergy, most likely because of lack of available antigens and because methods for diagnosing latex allergy are not familiar to most dermatologists.

Cross-Sectional Studies↗

Verrucous carcinoma occurring in a lesion of oral lichen planus.

Verrucous carcinoma of the oral cavity is relatively rare. Well-documented associations include human papillomavirus and carcinogens such as tobacco. Less well understood is the association with chronic inflammation, such as seen in lichen planus. Verrucous carcinoma has previously been described occurring in lesions of lichen planus of the foot and penis. We report the first case, to our knowledge, of verrucous carcinoma occurring in a lesion of oral lichen planus.

Aged↗

Latex allergy.

UNLABELLED: Coined the next major health concern of the decade, allergy to natural rubber latex affects people routinely exposed to rubber products. Groups at highest risk include health care workers, rubber industry workers, and persons who have undergone multiple surgical procedures, especially those with spina bifida. Allergy to latex is a type I, immediate, IgE-mediated reaction, which can lead to anaphylaxis and death. Much of latex research is published in allergy journals. Dermatologists may not be aware of the prevalence, symptoms, risks, diagnosis, and treatment of latex allergy. These topics are the subject of this review. Research concerning antigenic proteins, as well as sources of latex alternatives, is also summarized. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;39:1-24.) LEARNING OBJECTIVE: At the completion of this learning activity, participants should have a clear understanding of the history, biology, epidemiology, mechanism, clinical characteristics, diagnostic work-up, and treatment of latex allergy. Readers should also have a greater understanding of multiple potential allergenic latex proteins and their importance in preventing future latex-sensitization.

Anaphylaxis↗

Sesquiterpene lactone allergy.

Sesquiterpene lactones are a large, diverse group of chemicals found in several plant families that cause allergic contact dermatitis. The biological, botanical, allergenic, and structural significance of sesquiterpene lactones is explored as well as the clinical characteristics of cutaneous reactions. The association with UV-light sensitivity and proposed mechanisms for this relationship as well as new developments in patch test methods and treatment are reviewed.

Adult↗