Prevalence of latex-specific IgE antibodies in patients being evaluated for allergy

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of detectable latex-specific IgE in patients being evaluated for allergy.

The AlaSTAT assay was used to test for latex-specific IgE in 200 consecutive serum samples sent to our laboratory for total IgE levels. Samples sent for latex-specific IgE were excluded. The population studied included 87 males and 113 females ranging in age from 1 to 82 years of age. Inhibition studies with a latex extract were performed on all positive samples. Chart reviews and questionnaires provided information regarding risk factors for latex allergy and reactions to latex.

Twenty-four (12%) subjects were positive for latex-specific IgE. Seventeen of the 24 positive subjects (70.8%) were < 18 years of age and all of the strongly positive subjects (7 or 3.5%) were < 18 years of age. The geometric means for total IgE for the latex positive and negative subjects were 351 IU/mL and 80 IU/mL respectively, P < .001. The mean percent inhibition with latex was 66%. Chart reviews and questionnaires revealed only 2 of 24 positive subjects were in high risk groups, none of the positive subjects had any history of reactions to latex, and 22 (91.6%) had evidence of atopic disease.

In vitro tests may detect latex specific IgE in atopic individuals, especially children, with no history of recurrent latex exposure and no history of adverse reactions to latex.