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Intraoperative anaphylaxis: an association with latex sensitivity

M Gold1, J S Swartz, B M Braude

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|March 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric patients with spina bifida or urologic issues face severe intraoperative anaphylactic reactions due to latex exposure. Early allergy evaluation and latex avoidance are crucial for this high-risk group.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Immunology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Latex products are increasingly recognized as a cause of severe intraoperative anaphylactic reactions.
  • Pediatric patients with specific congenital abnormalities may be at higher risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify a specific pediatric patient group at increased risk for intraoperative anaphylactic reactions to latex.
  • To investigate the association between prior rubber material exposure and latex allergy in these patients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 15 pediatric patients with spina bifida or congenital urologic abnormalities who experienced intraoperative anaphylactic reactions.
  • Analysis of patient history for previous rubber exposure, skin reactions, atopy, and operative procedures.
  • Allergy skin testing and RAST (Radioallergosorbent test) for latex antigen in affected patients.

Main Results:

  • Fifteen patients experienced 19 intraoperative anaphylactic reactions, ranging from urticaria to cardiorespiratory collapse.
  • All patients had frequent prior exposure to rubber materials since infancy.
  • Positive allergy skin tests and RAST to latex antigen were confirmed in all evaluated patients.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric patients with spina bifida or congenital urologic abnormalities and frequent prior rubber exposure are at significant risk for intraoperative latex allergy.
  • Preoperative allergic evaluation for latex allergy is recommended for similar high-risk pediatric patients.
  • Strict avoidance of latex products is essential for sensitized patients to prevent severe anaphylactic reactions.

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