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Published on: March 24, 2023
[Latex allergy in children]
S Mavale-Manuel1, E Paty, P Scheinmann
1Service de pneumologie et d'allergologie pédiatriques, hôpital Necker-Enfants-malades, AP-HP, 149, rue de Sèvres, 75743 Paris cedex 15, France.
Insights
Latex allergy affects 1.3% of children, often linked to surgery history and other allergies. Early investigation is crucial for children with a history of surgery or pollen-food allergy syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Clinical Immunology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Latex allergy presents a significant clinical challenge in pediatric populations.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors is crucial for effective management.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated the clinical spectrum in children.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of latex allergy in children presenting to an allergy clinic.
- To identify clinical features and associated risk factors for latex allergy in pediatric patients.
- To compare sensitization patterns between children with and without latex allergy.
Summary:
- A prospective study of 243 children found a 1.3% prevalence of latex allergy.
- Risk factors included family history of atopy and prior surgical procedures.
- Children with latex allergy showed higher sensitization to inhaled and food allergens, including avocado.
- Balloon products were the most frequent cause of latex-induced symptoms.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of investigating latex allergy in children with specific risk factors.
- Suggests latex avoidance as a key preventive strategy.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the diagnosis and management of pediatric latex allergy.
Unlabelled:
The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of latex allergy and the clinical features of children with latex allergy.
Patients And Methods:
We prospectively investigated 243 children consulting in our allergy out-patients unit during 1 year. Parents answered a questionnaire, and children underwent skin prick tests with common allergens and latex. Latex-specific serum immunoglobulin E was determined by CAP test in children with latex sensitization. The results were compared in children with and without latex allergy.
Results:
The prevalence of latex allergy was 1.3%. A family history of atopy (75%) and a personal history of previous surgery was associated with latex allergy (P < 0.0001). In children with latex allergy, the frequency of sensitization to inhaled and food allergens, atopic dermatitis, rhinitis and conjunctivitis was higher than in children without latex allergy (P < 0.05). Avocado allergy was the food allergy most commonly associated with clinical symptoms. Balloon was the most common latex product causing symptoms (60%).
Conclusions:
Due to its potential severe consequences, latex allergy should be investigated in children who had undergone multiple surgical procedures and in the children with pollen-food allergy syndrome. Avoidance of latex is an important preventive measure.
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