Latex sensitization and allergy in children with spinal dysraphism: A meta-analysis

Children with Spinal Dysraphism have historically demonstrated a higher prevalence of latex allergy which resulted in efforts to establish latex-free environments for these children. Whether this has reduced latex sensitization and allergy prevalence is uncertain.

This systematic review evaluates and summarizes the current evidence of the prevalence of latex allergy in children with spinal dysraphism.

MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed databases were searched for studies investigating the prevalence of latex sensitisation and allergy in patients with spina dysraphism from inception until May 2025. An a priori protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024568889). Baseline characteristics and prevalence of positive IgE, positive skin prick, and allergy to latex were double-screened and extracted independently. Meta-analysis was performed, pooling the prevalence rate under a random effects model.

Nineteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Latex sensitization was common: 20% on specific IgE testing (95% CI 11% - 34%, I2 = 87%) and 21% on skin prick testing (95% CI 13% - 32%, I2 = 67%). Latex allergy was present in 6% (95% CI 2% - 17%, I2 = 88%). Latex sensitization and allergy rates appear to be decreasing over time, although the trends were not statistically significant.

These findings highlight the persistently high prevalence of latex sensitization and allergy in children with spinal dysraphism. The absence of recent studies and the widespread introduction of latex-free products underscore the need for up-to-date prevalence data. Establishing a dedicated registry would help determine current prevalence rates.