ABSTRACT
Background Hypersensitivity reactions to latex were first reported from Germany in 1927. The first report from the UK came in 1979 and since then this condition has been recognized worldwide. Between 1988 and 1992, the FDA received reports of more than 1000 systemic allergic reactions to latex, 15 of which were fatal. Although the true prevalence of latex allergy in the general population is not known it is widely believed that sensitization to this allergen has increased over recent decades, at least in the medical profession owing to the extensive use of latex gloves to avoid exposure to HIV and hepatitis infections. Those at risk of latex allergy include health care workers (5-30%), rubber industry workers (10%), patients with spina bifida (30-70%) and patients with other urogenital abnormalities. Data regarding the influence of age, gender, race and length of exposure to latex are inconsistent. However, it has been shown that atopic individuals are at a higher risk of developing allergy to latex than nonatopic individuals.
