Allergy Allergy 1. The test is intended as an aid in the diagnosis of allergy to latex. Summary Latex products are used in various occupations. In recent years there has been an increasing incidennce of acquired allergy to natural rubber latex proteins among health professionals, dental workers, children with spina bifida, and patients with history of frequent mucosal contact with natural rubber products. The problem of reaction to latex products is sometimes severe and occasionally fatal.
Natural rubber is extracted from Hevea brasiliensis .
To increase the elasticity of rubber products, latex extract is chemically cross linked during the manufacturing process. As a result of the manufacturing process of latex, a small amount of water soluble proteins of natural rubber may remain in the end products. Allergic reactions to latex products are caused by interactions between specific IgE antibodies in sensitized individuals and latex proteins. Immediate reactions to latex products include systemic urticaria, rhinitis, bronchospasm, conjunctivities, and, in severe conditions, anaphylaxis. Occupational exposure to potentially allergic latex materials is preventable.