[Type I hypersensitivity to latex]

Allergy to latex causes serious accidents that are often unrecognised. These accidents are perfectly predictable by a simple interrogation, together with skin and biological tests. Populations at risk can be identified: persons undergoing treatment, particularly the disabled and also housewives. There is a risk of further increases in the number of cases of hypersensitivity to latex due to the expanding use of preservatives. The study undertaken at the CHU at Angers has shown that allergy to fruits is frequent in patients who are sensitive to latex. The exact nature of allergy to Hevea is not yet well understood: it is not possible at present to decide whether there is "crossed allergy" or whether it is one part of a larger syndrome.