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Latex hypersensitivity following exposure to gloves during electromyography
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98105-0371.
Muscle & Nerve
|May 1, 1993
Summary
A 7-year-old boy with myelodysplasia experienced a latex glove hypersensitivity reaction during electromyography (EMG). This highlights the risk of latex allergens during EMG, especially in myelodysplasia patients, necessitating caution and alternative glove use.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Myelodysplasia (MDS) is a group of blood cancers.
- Latex allergy is a growing concern in healthcare settings.
- Electromyography (EMG) involves needle insertion, potentially breaching the skin barrier.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old boy with myelodysplasia presented with a localized acute hypersensitivity reaction.
- The reaction occurred after exposure to latex gloves during an EMG procedure.
- This case aligns with recent reports of anaphylaxis from latex gloves in myelodysplasia patients.
Findings:
- Allergens in rubber gloves can be introduced subdermally during EMG.
- This can trigger acute hypersensitivity reactions, both local and systemic.
- Patients with myelodysplasia appear to be at increased risk.
Implications:
- Electromyographers must screen for rubber allergies before procedures.
- Vinyl gloves should be used for patients with suspected latex allergy.
- Awareness and preventative measures are crucial to avoid adverse latex reactions in vulnerable patient populations.