The Problem of the Sensitization to Dithiocarbamates in Thiuram-Allergic Patients

Because of the occurrence of hand dermatitis in members of a surgical staff due to allergy to thiuram-containing rubber gloves, an investigation was performed about cross-sensitization between thiuram compounds and dithiocarbamates. Positive reactions to dithiocarbamates were compared with reactions to 8 brands of hypo-allergenic or dithiocarbamate-containing surgical gloves. There appeared to be a marked difference in reactions to the dithiocarbamate-containing gloves. Some brands gave negative or nearly always negative reactions, while other brands caused many positive reactions. Thiuram-allergic patients were advised to wear nonreacting rubber gloves or PVC gloves.