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Latex Allergy Information

Incidence and Symptoms

Since the introduction of universal precautions, the incidence of allergic reactions to natural rubber latex has been reported among healthcare personnel.

Symptoms of reaction include but are not limited to:

  • dermatitis
  • conjunctivitis
  • rhinitis
  • urticaria
  • angioedema
  • asthma
  • anaphylaxis

Another recognized contributing factor to latex sensitivity is the powder or cornstarch used in latex gloves. This powder has been shown to adhere to latex particles, aggravating respiratory symptoms.Latex allergy precaution is a relatively recent issue to affect healthcare. With increased use of latex has come increased hypersensitivity, causing many hospitals to develop policies to reduce exposure to latex.

Prevalence

Prevalence varies by job category within healthcare professions with highest reports from operating room and dental personnel.

Factors linked to latex sensitivity among healthcare personnel include:

  • presence of other allergic conditions
  • elevated total IgE levels
  • allergies to cosmetics or food (especially linked to allergies to bananas, avocados and chestnuts)
  • frequency and duration of glove use
  • number of years working in healthcare

Other groups at risk for latex allergy include but are not limited to:

  • those exposed to repeated surgical procedures
  • those exposed to repeated surgical procedures
  • neural tube defect disorders such as spina bifida
  • those exposed to repeated intravenous or catheterization treatment

Precautions for Transfusion

Some components of blood collection sets and fractionated blood product containers may contain latex. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been developed by some laboratories for component preparation that avoids latex or uses products that do not contain latex. A mechanism must be in place to notify the laboratory that possible transfusion recipients are sensitive to latex in order to reduce exposure.

Canadian Blood Services (CBS) maintains a list of contacts for manufactured products to obtain additional information on latex containing products.

Further Reading

Note: Canadian Blood Services offers no endorsement of and assumes no liability for the currency, accuracy, or availability of any information on these sites.

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