The Gloves Come Off Over Latex

When West Chester (Pa.) dentist Lise C. Borel broke out in welts, turned bright red, and couldn't catch her breath during a patient exam three years ago, the last thing she thought to blame was the gloves she had just slipped on. But like thousands of Americans, Borel is severely allergic to latex, the rubber-like compound in most medical gloves. Her doctors believe the condition has led to asthma and possibly heart problems, and warn that just a slight exposure to latex could trigger a life-threatening seizure.

Borel, 42, no longer practices dentistry and is in rehabilitation. She can't even spend much time in dental offices. Because the lubricating powder used on most medical gloves absorbs allergenic proteins in the latex--and then becomes airborne--she believes that she could suffer an attack just by inhaling. Says Borel: "My immune system is in overdrive."