When a patient is allergic to latex, what is the entry mechanism of this antigen when in contact with gloves?

The correct answer is related to the way the immune system responds to allergens, particularly in the case of latex exposure. When a patient is allergic to latex, the entry mechanism of the antigen, which in this context would be substances from latex gloves, primarily occurs through absorption.

When latex gloves come into contact with the skin, certain proteins from the latex can be absorbed into the skin's layers. For individuals with a latex allergy, this absorption can trigger an immune response, leading to allergic reactions. This pathway highlights the importance of avoiding contact with latex products for those with known allergies, as the proteins can easily penetrate the skin barrier.

Inhalation would involve the inhalation of airborne latex particles, which can happen in some scenarios but is not the primary concern when gloves are used. Injection implies a direct delivery into the bloodstream, which is not how latex comes into contact with a patient wearing gloves. Ingestion refers to taking something into the body via the digestive system, which does not apply to the context of latex gloves and direct skin exposure. Thus, the primary mechanism for latex allergens from gloves is through absorption.