Latex allergy: past and present.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Occupational Health
• Pediatric Health

Background:

• Latex products have been used for over a century, but latex allergy has emerged as a significant health issue in the last 15 years.
• Latex allergy disproportionately affects healthcare workers (HCW) and children with spina bifida (SB).

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a historical overview of latex allergy.
• To review key aspects of latex allergy, including manufacturing processes, characterized allergens, exposure assessment, epidemiology, clinical management, and animal models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on latex allergy.
• Examination of the manufacturing process for dipped latex products.
• Analysis of characterized latex allergens (11 designated by IUIS).
• Review of exposure assessment methodologies.
• Compilation of epidemiological data and clinical management strategies.
• Assessment of the role of animal models in understanding latex allergy mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Identification of 11 characterized latex allergens with designations by the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS).
• Overview of manufacturing processes influencing allergenicity.
• Summary of epidemiological trends and clinical manifestations.
• Discussion of various exposure assessment techniques.
• Evaluation of animal models for mechanistic studies.

Conclusions:

• Latex allergy is a recognized occupational and patient health hazard requiring comprehensive understanding.
• Knowledge of latex allergens, exposure, and management is essential for affected populations.
• Further research, including animal models, aids in understanding allergy mechanisms.