Fruit sensitization in patients with allergy to latex

In the last years, latex has frequently been found to be involved in immediate hypersensitivity reactions. The first case mentioned with recurrent urticaria and laryngoedema was reported by Stern (1) in 1927. Since then, latex has also been implicated in generalized urticaria, rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma and anaphylaxis. Associated sensitization to several fruits is frequently seen in latex-allergic patients with the symptoms described above. This study was performed in seven patients (six females and one male) with hypersensitivity to latex and concomitant fruit sensitization. Six of them were healthcare personnel. The age of the patients ranged from 25-39 years, with a mean of 30 years. Prick tests and intracutaneous tests with latex (10% w/v in PBS), banana, chestnut, avocado, kiwi and melon were carried out. A specific histamine release test (HRT) was performed according to the fluorometric assay. Antigen-specific IgE was also performed. Latex CAP inhibition with banana and SDS-PAGE immunoblotting were carried out in one patient. Although in latex-allergic patients multiple sensitization to fruits may be observed, banana and avocado are those most frequently involved, followed by chestnut and melon. This is likely to be due to the presence of common antigens in these fruits and latex, as demonstrated in our study only for banana and avocado. We consider that further investigation is needed on the possible sensitization to latex in sanitary personnel reporting symptoms after fruit ingestion.