Anaphylaxis and angioedema due to rubber allergy in children

Delayed hypersensitivity to rubber chemicals is well known but there are an increasing number of case reports on an immediate type of hypersensitivity inducing contact urticaria and anaphylaxis in adults. We now report on three atopic children who developed angioedema, which in two of them progressed to anaphylaxis after exposure to natural rubber products. All three patients showed positive skin prick tests and one had a positive RAST test to latex from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). It is clear that sensitized subjects are at risk of developing anaphylaxis when exposed to natural rubber products, e.g. during medical examination or surgery when rubber gloves are used.