Latex induced anaphylaxis: a case report

The case of a 42-year-old latex-sensitive female who experienced urticaria, pruritus, soft tissue swelling, and significant hypotension during an outpatient barium enema is described. These signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis occurred immediately after enema tip insertion and before infusion of contrast material. The patient responded well to appropriate emergency therapy and her symptoms resolved in a 24-hour period. Subsequent radioallergosorbent test showed an elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) level to latex, and the skin prick test produced significant induration and erythema in response to latex. This patient experienced an IgE-mediated anaphylactic reaction to the latex enema tip. Emergency physicians need to be aware of the spectrum of latex-induced allergic reactions.