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<p>Latex mediated hypersensitivity<br>LCDR James M. Tynecki, DC, USN, and CDR Charles Paddock, DC, USN<br><br>Introduction<br>Natural latex, a byproduct from the sap of a commercially grown rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis, is an allergen in persons with considerable collective latex exposure. The sap contains at least 10 soluble proteins which can cause an IgE-mediated allergic/ hypersensitivity reaction. Individuals at high risk are those in the rubber and health care industries, as well as others who undergo repeated surgeries, especially if they occur surgeries early in life. Persons with spina bifida, urogenital abnormalities, and specific food allergies are also considered a high risk population.<br><br>Latex rubber has been in use for over a century. Reports of immediate hypersensitivity to latex have increased dramatically since the first case was reported (in English) in 1979. Sixteen deaths occurred in association with the use of a latex barium enema tip. This led to the recall of the device in 1991 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and an in-crease in awareness of the risk of a life-threatening type I allergy associated with natural latex devices. In the general population, 0.8% to 6.5% of persons are reported to be latex sensitive. This increases in persons having multiple surgical or urinary procedures; for example, as many as 73% of children with spina bifida are estimated to be latex sensitive.<br><br>Since 1985, the establishment of "universal precautions" policies and the increased barrier requirements resulting from the epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome have resulted in an exponential increase in the use of latex gloves. In 1987, 1 billion latex gloves were imported into the United States; in 1988, 8 billion gloves were imported.<br><br>The importance of properly questioning our patients, recognizing early warning signs, and properly treating symptoms is paramount to the prevention of an anaphylactic reaction in our clinics.<br></p>
<br>Subjects: allergens; latex; rubber; Universal Precautions; dentistry</div>
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U.S. Navy. Naval Postgraduate Dental School</div>
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