[Anesthetic management of a patient with latex allergy diagnosed preoperatively]

Since the first report in 1979, the number of patients with latex allergy has progressively increased. We experienced an anesthetic management of a 3 year-old child who underwent the repair of anal atresia. The first operation was performed in newborn period. After the surgery, the patient developed skin rash and the loss of consciousness every time anal irrigation was made with latex-containing catheter. Latex-allergy was diagnosed at the age of 3 years, with the positive skin test by latex extract. It took enormous time and efforts to find out the possibility of latex-contamination in a wide variety of medical equipments and supplies to prevent allergic reaction during perioperative period. In this patient, perioperative cause was uneventful. It is suggested that preoperative preparation is essential and caution should be also paid to prevent allergic reaction in daily life.