Ethylene oxide allergy in children with spina bifida

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T Pittman1, J Kiburz, G Steinhardt

  • 1Division of Neurological Surgery, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63104, USA.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|October 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure may cause allergic reactions in children with myelomeningoceles. This study found EtO-specific IgE in 23% of these children, often linked to latex allergy and shunt use.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Allergic reactions to ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilized medical products have been reported in children with myelomeningoceles.
  • Understanding the prevalence and clinical significance of EtO-specific IgE is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of EtO-specific IgE in children with myelomeningoceles.
  • To assess the significance of EtO-specific IgE in this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples were collected from children with myelomeningoceles, chronically ill controls, and well-child controls.
  • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IgE antibodies against EtO and latex.

Main Results:

  • 23% of children with myelomeningoceles (17/75) had EtO-specific IgE, compared to 4% of chronically ill controls (1/26) and 0% of well controls.
  • Children with EtO-specific IgE were more likely to be atopic, have a shunt, and possess latex-specific IgE.
  • These children had undergone more surgical procedures, including shunt revisions.

Conclusions:

  • While EtO-specific IgE was detected, no cases of anaphylaxis attributed to EtO exposure occurred during the study period.
  • The findings highlight a potential link between EtO exposure, myelomeningocele management (shunts), and allergic sensitization.
Abstract

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