[Allergy to natural rubber. A current problem]

Three cases of immediate type hypersensitivity to natural rubber latex are described. Unexpected, severe reactions were seen in two patients. One patient had used rubber gloves regularly and experienced moderate local symptoms. She had to change job because of generalised urticaria and asthma due to airborne latex-allergens in the workplace. The diagnosis of latex allergy may not always be obvious, and negative or weak IgE-RAST can be seen in patients who have experienced severe allergic reactions after latex exposure. Cross reactions to banana, avocado, kiwi and possibly other fruits and plants may be seen. Medical staff using latex gloves should be aware of the risk of severe adverse reactions in their patients due to latex allergy. Gloves made from vinyl or other synthetic materials (i.e. Elastyren or Tactylon) can be used in these cases.