Reactions to latex can take a variety of forms. Other reactions can mimic hay fever or asthma. Individuals with latex allergies are more likely to react to certain foods, especially bananas, avocados, chestnuts and kiwi fruits. The most important diagnostic test for latex allergies is the medical history. To confirm the diagnosis, the most commonly used tests are blood tests to identify antibodies to latex proteins.
Skin tests are also sometimes helpful, but have the potential to provoke serious reactions.
Treatment requires avoidance of latex-containing medical and consumer items. Many hospitals now offer latex-free wards and operating rooms for allergic patients. All providers, including dentists, should be notified of a patient's latex allergy. The good news is that with proper recognition, diagnosis, and management, most latex allergy sufferers can avoid the complications of this newest healthcare epidemic. Bruce A. Berlow, M.D. received his medical degree from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.