The spectrum of IgE-mediated responses to latex

Article Abstract:

Latex, the milky sap from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis, is used in the manufacture of surgical gloves, condoms, balloons, catheters, elastic thread, rubber bands, and elastic adhesives used in dentistry. It has long been recognized that latex rubber is the causal agent in many cases of contact dermatitis (inflammation of the skin caused by contact with a foreign substance). In some cases, patients and health care workers who are exposed to latex develop more severe allergic responses to the product, evidenced by the production of IgE-type immunoglobulins (antibodies) against latex. The authors review the cases of 14 patients manifesting IgE-mediated allergic reactions (as verified by a positive skin test for latex and the presence of latex IgE antibodies in the blood). Exposures occurred through a variety of routes, including airborne (workers in a latex glove factory), skin contact (usage of latex gloves), and systemic (insertion of latex catheters into the rectum or urinary tract, handling of viscera with latex gloves during operative procedures, etc.). Reactions varied from mild (skin reaction) to severe (cessation of breathing and extreme drop in blood pressure). Physicians, particularly surgeons, should be aware that some of their patients may have been unknowingly sensitized to latex, and may experience life-threatening allergic reactions when exposed to it during medical and surgical procedures. A skin test is adequate to identify allergic patients, and (usually more expensive) nonlatex substitutes are available for most latex products. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Immunoglobulin E, Allergic reaction

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Allergy to latex rubber

Article Abstract:

Health care workers and children with spina bifida appear to be at an increased risk of developing allergies to latex and they should be protected from exposure because life-threatening allergic reactions may be triggered. Less than 1% of the population is believed to be sensitive to latex. However, the prevalence of latex allergy among health care workers ranges from 7% to 10% and among certain patients with repeated latex exposure, such as children with spina bifida, it ranges from 28% to 67%. The most common reaction is a skin rash, but inhaled particles, often carried on the powder used in gloves, can cause inflammation of eyes and noses and can cause asthma. Hives may result as may life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Patients sensitive to latex should not be exposed to latex during medical or dental procedures. Equipment that may contain latex includes catheters, condoms, adhesives, tourniquets for blood pressure measurement, and anesthetic equipment in addition to latex gloves. Persons sensitive to latex may also be sensitive to avocado, banana, kiwi, or chestnut.

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Use and interpretation of diagnostic immunologic laboratory tests

Article Abstract:

There are many laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose immunologic disorders. Various types of electrophoresis can distinguish between the different types of immunoglobulins (antibodies) and detect any abnormalities in antibody production. Monoclonal antibodies can be used to detect abnormalities in T cell and B cell production. The neutrophil is a cell responsible for identifying and destroying invading bacteria. There are several tests that can detect abnormal neutrophil function. Skin tests can be used to detect anergy, a state of delayed or diminished sensitivity to specific antigens. They can also be used to detect hypersensitivity to antigens (allergy). There are tests to measure the functioning of the complement system, which is also involved in destroying foreign cells. There are many tests to detect immune disorders in connective tissue diseases and infectious diseases.

Immunoglobulins, Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Immunologic diseases, Complement (Immunology)

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