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How common is latex allergy? A survey of children with myelodysplasia
M L Pearson1, J S Cole, W R Jarvis
1Hospital Infections Program, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333.
Insights
Latex allergy is common in children with myelodysplasia, particularly those with a history of allergies or multiple surgeries. Clinical history, like balloon allergy, can identify at-risk children for preventive measures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Spina Bifida Research
- Latex Hypersensitivity
Background:
- Myelodysplasia (also known as spina bifida) is a congenital condition often requiring multiple medical interventions.
- Latex allergy is a growing concern in healthcare settings, particularly for individuals with repeated exposure.
- Children with spina bifida are considered a high-risk group for developing latex sensitization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of latex allergy in pediatric patients with myelodysplasia.
- To characterize the clinical symptoms associated with latex allergy in this population.
- To identify risk factors contributing to latex sensitization in children with myelodysplasia.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted at a regional spina bifida center.
- Data collected included patient history, allergy status, and surgical history.
- Clinical symptoms of latex allergy were documented.
Main Results:
- Symptomatic latex allergy was found to be frequent among children with myelodysplasia.
- A history of allergies and multiple surgical procedures were identified as significant risk factors for sensitization.
- Clinical history, including reactions to latex balloons, can aid in identifying at-risk individuals.
Conclusions:
- Children with myelodysplasia frequently experience symptomatic latex allergy.
- Preventive strategies should target patients identified as high-risk through clinical history.
- Further research into sensitive and specific laboratory tests for latex allergy is warranted.
Abstract:
To estimate the prevalence of latex allergy among children with myelodysplasia, describe the spectrum of associated clinical symptoms and evaluate potential risk factors for the development of latex sensitization, the authors conducted a survey at a regional spina bifida center. The findings suggest that symptomatic latex allergy is frequent among children with myelodysplasia and that those with a history of allergies and/or multiple surgical procedures are at greatest risk of sensitization. Until a sensitive and specific laboratory test for latex allergy is available, clinical history, especially allergy to balloons, may be an inexpensive and convenient way of identifying patients with myelodysplasia who may be at increased risk of more severe reactions and at whom preventive measures, such as reducing latex exposures and/or administration of prophylactic medications, should be targeted.