Anaphylaxis triggered by prick test with latex extract: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Adverse reactions to skin prick tests are uncommon but can manifest as severe systemic events.
• Occupational exposure to allergens, such as latex, can trigger allergic responses in healthcare workers.

Observation:

• A 38-year-old female nursing technician experienced three episodes of anaphylaxis within a year, all linked to her workplace.
• Following a latex prick test, the patient rapidly developed symptoms including rash, pruritus, hoarseness, dyspnea, and dry cough.
• The patient's anaphylactic symptoms resolved promptly with immediate medical intervention and supportive care.

Findings:

• Skin prick testing, particularly with allergens like latex, carries a risk of inducing immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
• The case highlights a direct correlation between latex allergen exposure during diagnostic testing and severe anaphylactic episodes.

Implications:

• Skin tests must be conducted under strict medical supervision to enable immediate management of potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.
• Healthcare facilities should implement robust protocols for allergen testing and anaphylaxis management to ensure patient safety.
• This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing occupational allergies in healthcare professionals.