Latex allergy: diagnosis and management

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Latex allergy involves an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to natural rubber latex (NRL) proteins.
• Clinical manifestations range from skin reactions to severe anaphylaxis.
• High-risk groups include individuals with spina bifida and healthcare workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of natural rubber latex allergy.
• To highlight cross-reactivity with certain foods.
• To discuss preventive measures and workplace accommodations.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical signs and diagnostic methods for NRL allergy.
• Identification of major NRL allergens and high-risk populations.
• Discussion of avoidance strategies and alternative materials.

Main Results:

• NRL allergy presents with diverse symptoms, including urticaria, angioedema, asthma, and anaphylaxis.
• Patients with NRL allergy may exhibit cross-reactivity to foods like banana, kiwi, and avocado.
• Diagnosis relies on RAST, skin prick tests, or challenge tests.

Conclusions:

• Allergen avoidance, substitution with synthetic materials (e.g., nitrile, vinyl), and workplace accommodations are crucial for managing NRL allergy.
• Preventive measures have successfully decreased NRL reaction prevalence.
• Hyposensitization therapies are not yet clinically feasible.