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[Peroperative anaphylactic shock caused by latex]
J C Jorrot1, F Mercier, C Pecquet
1Département d'Anesthésie-Réanimation, Cochin-Maternités, Paris.
Annales Francaises D'Anesthesie Et De Reanimation
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Severe anaphylactic shock in a woman undergoing caesarean section was caused by latex surgical gloves. Allergy testing confirmed latex as the trigger, ruling out anaesthetic drugs.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Surgical Safety
Background:
- Caesarean sections are common surgical procedures.
- Latex allergy is a known occupational hazard for healthcare workers.
- Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old woman experienced severe anaphylactic shock post-foetal extraction during a caesarean section.
- The patient had no known prior latex allergies.
- Symptoms of anaphylaxis manifested immediately after the procedure.
Findings:
- Allergological tests, including prick tests, human basophil degranulation tests, and specific anti-latex IgE detection, confirmed latex allergy.
- All tests conducted with anaesthetic agents were negative, excluding them as causative agents.
- The latex from surgical gloves was identified as the sole trigger for the anaphylactic reaction.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for vigilance regarding latex allergy in surgical settings, even in patients without a prior history.
- Emphasizes the importance of using non-latex alternatives or implementing strict protocols to prevent latex exposure during obstetric procedures.
- Underscores the potential for severe allergic reactions to common materials used in healthcare, necessitating thorough diagnostic workups.