A health care worker began wearing a new brand of latex gloves on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at work. He did not work on Saturday and Sunday or use other gloves of any kind. On Sunday afternoon, both of his hands developed a red rash that ended at the wrist. The rash was not present on any other body part. As described, this is most likely a type ________ hypersensitivity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is most likely a Type IV hypersensitivity reaction, also known as delayed-type hypersensitivity. It is mediated by T cells and typically manifests 48-72 hours after exposure to the allergen, which aligns with the timeline of the health care worker's symptoms after wearing the new brand of latex gloves.

A Health Care Worker Began Wearing a New Brand of Latex