[A case of latex allergy caused by hypersensitivity to the latex-containing facemask]

We experienced anesthetic management of a 2 year-old girl with Pierre-Robin syndrome. She had received respiratory support for 6 months from the birth. As soon as we induced general anesthesia, she had a skin rash. We suspected that this rash was caused by hypersensitivity to the latex-containing facemask. We stopped anesthesia and postponed operation. After a month, operation was performed under general anesthesia using latex-free anesthetic circuit and equipments. Perioperative course was uneventful. Since the first report in 1979, the number of patients with latex allergy has progressively been increasing. It has been reported that latex allergy occurs in persons considered at high risk for latex allergy including patients with spina bifida, urogenital abnormalities and atopic dermatitis, and in health care workers and rubber industry workers. If patients suspected of having latex allergy undergo surgical procedures, anesthesiologists must check patients' past history and possibility of chronic exposure to latex products. In these cases, preoperative preparation is essential and thorough precaution should also be taken to avoid life-threatening allergic reaction.