Posted on February 17, 2008 in Latest News
Natural rubber latex has been in widespread use for over a century. Reports of immediate hypersensitivity to latex have increased dramatically since the first case was reported (in English) in 1979. Latex contains low-molecular-weight soluble proteins, which are the cause of IgE-mediated allergic reactions.
Latex is a complex product of the Brazilian rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis, which is predominantly cultivated for commercial use in the Pacific Rim countries. A milky fluid is tapped from the tree, in much the same way as is done with maple sap. The raw product is then mixed with preservatives, accelerators, and various other chemicals.
Persons at high risk of sensitization include those with cumulatively prolonged exposure to latex. Among those who have undergone repeated surgeries, particularly early in life–especially those with myelomeningocele (spina bifida) or urogenital abnormalities–the prevalence of latex allergy may be greater than 60 percent (Table 1). Workers in the latex manufacturing industry are also at risk, with one glove manufacturing plant reporting a 3.7 percent prevalence of occupational asthma caused by latex allergy among its employees, based on positive results of skin prick testing and spirometric data.4 Among workers at a latex doll manufacturing plant, the prevalence of latex sensitization was also shown to be significant.
Latex allergy can give rise to a broad range of symptoms. These include Type IV (Delayed) Hypersensitivity, Type I (Immediate) Hypersensitivity and Type IV (Delayed) Hypersensitivity. In managing the patient with latex sensitivity, the distinctions between a true type I (or immediate hypersensitivity reaction to latex) and irritant and allergic contact dermatitis reactions caused by other factors must be considered.
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