Natural rubber latex allergy-pearls and pitfalls:: Review

A case of natural rubber latex allergy is briefly described. The clinical characteristics, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of this disease are discussed followed by clinical pearls and pitfalls for the practicing allergist. Natural rubber latex allergy is now considered the most frequent cause of occupational allergy in healthcare workers. Dipped latex products can trigger urticaria, angioedema, and anaphylaxis after cutaneous or mucosal exposure. Adsorbed latex allergens in powdered gloves also may cause rhino-conjunctivitis and asthma. In the pathogenesis, immediate- and delayed- type hypersensitivity reactions play a major role. Diagnostic tools are ImmunoCAP, skin prick test and provocation test as required. Treatment is simply based on avoidance as well as symptomatic treatment. New treatment modalities e.g. immunotherapy with hypoallergenic hevein and anti-IgE are underway.