People with no prior known response to latex may suddenly exhibit reactions to latex medical devices and surgical gloves ranging from minor skin reddening to fatal anaphylactic shock. Latex sensitivity affects an estimated one percent of the population including up to 15 percent of health workers and others exposed to latex regularly, and 34 to 100 percent of people with spina bifida who are exposed repeatedly to latex tips on enema bottles during treatment. The diagnosis of latex-allergy usually is made by physical examination and history. Now a laboratory test can identify latex sensitivity by measuring latex antibodies in blood. The test was granted marketing clearance by FDA on March 24 based on clinical data showing the test detected latex sensitivity in 87 to 94 percent of the allergic patients.
Results are available in a few hours.
Chris Stavroudis is a conservator in private practice.