DOCSLIB.ORG

Cataract Surgery for Natural Rubber Latex Allergic Patients

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Cataract Surgery for Natural Rubber Latex Allergic Patients Eye (2003) 17, 129–138 & 2003 Nature Publishing Group All rights reserved 0950-222X/03 $25.00 www.nature.com/eye Cataract surgery for D Cheung1 and T Gillow2 REVIEW natural rubber latex allergic patients Abstract In July 2001, the authors were involved in the management of patients undergoing cataract The prevalence of reactions against natural surgery who were known to be NRL sensitive. rubber latex (NRL) is thought to be increasing We discovered that not only did our hospital not in both the general public and healthcare have a formal management plan for NRL- workers. These can vary from mild benign sensitive patients undergoing cataract surgery, skin reactions to bronchospasm, anaphylactic but also that our department was not alone, and shock, and death. Difficulties exist for a brief telephone survey of the theatre sisters of ophthalmic departments wishing to establish other ophthalmic units revealed a similar protocols in providing ‘latex-free situation. Not only were these ophthalmology environments’ for patients undergoing cataract departments lacking a formal protocol of action, surgery. Currently no legislation exists but there was also a general lack of awareness regarding the labelling of NRL-containing amongst ophthalmologists and ophthalmology products in the United Kingdom with nurses to the scale of the problem. information on a product’s NRL content A MEDLINE and EMBASE literature review provided by the manufacturer on a voluntary highlighted several review articles that describe basis only. It is hoped this review article will the magnitude of the problem and basic science act as a basic guide in the management of behind NRL reactions. In addition, many NRL-sensitive patients undergoing cataract subspecialties, in particular dentistry, surgery in the United Kingdom. anaesthesia and otolaryngology, have provided Eye (2003) 17, 129–138. doi:10.1038/ review articles, which act as frameworks for the sj.eye.6700321 management of NRL-related problems within their specific subspecialty. There have been no Keywords: latex hypersensitivity; cataract similar articles specific to cataract surgery as extraction yet. It is hoped that this article will help to address this. Introduction Although it is over 70 years since allergic Case report reactions to natural rubber latex (NRL) were first described,1 a dramatic rise in the number of An 80-year-old woman attended cataract reported cases has occurred over the past two assessment clinic. Her significant past medical 1Birmingham and Midland decades. The majority of these reported cases history included hospital attendance at a Eye Centre have occurred in industrialised countries, and dermatology outpatient clinic for a non-healing Birmingham, UK although it is well known that certain groups of venous calf ulcer. Examination confirmed 2 patients have a higher risk of latex allergy, for visually significant cataracts for which she was North Staffordshire Royal Infirmary example, children with spina bifida, it is listed for surgery. Stoke on Trent, UK believed that the frequency of NRL-induced On the day of surgery, the patient mentioned reactions is increasing in the general population. that she had a ‘rubber allergy’ that had been Correspondence: Reports range from mild mechanical irritant diagnosed by the dermatologist. Although she Mr David Cheung reactions to life-threatening episodes caused by had declared this at the preassessment clinic a Birmingham and Midland immediate IgE-mediated anaphylactic shock. fortnight earlier, there had been no change in Eye Centre Currently, no curative measures to eliminate the course of management of the patient. City Hospital NHS Trust Dudley Road hypersensitivity to NRL proteins exist. All It was realised that during the cataract Birmingham B18 7QU, UK current treatment options revolve around operation, the patient would encounter multiple Tel: + 44 121 554 3801 measures to reduce exposure to NRL proteins.2 types of synthetic/natural types of plastic or E-mail: dmwc@ bigfoot.com Cataract surgery D Cheung and T Gillow 130 rubber—the exact constituents of these were unknown. Epidemiology Several factors were unknown: Natural rubber latex has been in use for over 100 years. It is now estimated that it is found in over 40 000 products. What was the exact allergen to which the patient Although the first allergic reaction to NRL was described was sensitive? over 70 years ago, recently there has been a heightened Whether or not she would be exposed to the allergen? awareness of the problem. This is particularly so in If exposure was inevitable, what was the ‘dose’ subspecialties that have had to cope with the most of exposure? Was this dose of exposure significant? dangerous of complications, for example, hypotension How sensitive would the patient be if she were and sudden anaphylactic shock, airway obstruction and exposed to the allergen? That is, what would be asthma. In the USA, there have been at least 220 cases of the nature/magnitude of hypersensitivity response anaphylaxis due to latex exposure.3 The sensitisation of if significant exposure of allergen occurred? patients to NRL is thought to occur with repeated exposure to NRL proteins, for example, those patients Surgery was deferred until these questions could be who undergo multiple surgical procedures. The answered. increased incidence of NRL allergy in certain high-risk It was later discovered that this lady had attended the groups can be explained by the associated increased vascular surgery outpatient clinic at another hospital for exposure to NRL allergens. For example, it has been a non-healing skin ulcer overlying her left calf, which shown that the risk of latex allergy in a child with spina had been managed unsuccessfully as a mixed arterial bifida increases with the number of operations and venous ulcer. Its treatment consisted of regular performed on that child.4 It is therefore understandable pressure dressings, which were replaced weekly by a that children with spina bifida and multiple orthopaedic community nurse. She was eventually referred to a problems have a higher incidence of NRL allergy. dermatologist for a second opinion and was diagnosed Consequently, much of the current literature regarding with localised dermatitis. Skin patch testing showed the clinical significance of NRL allergy originates from sensitivity to thiuram (rubber) and wool alcohol, and it the subspecialties involved in their care, particularly was advised that all contact with latex be avoided, anaesthetics, intensive therapy unit (ITU) nursing and including the use of both latex-free dressings and gloves orthopaedics.5–11 when dressing the ulcer. The ulcer promptly healed. In addition to high-risk patient groups, there is also an The cataract operation was performed two months increased incidence of NRL-related allergic reactions and later in a ‘latex-free environment’ (see later) without NRL hypersensitivity seen in healthcare workers, for complications. Unaided visual acuity was 6/9, example, dentists, operating nursing staff, accident and improving to 6/6 with a small mixed astigmatic emergency staff,12–14 and this is thought to be due to correction and she was discharged. increased exposure to NRL allergens within the work environment. There have been several controlled studies Discussion to examine the link between NRL allergy and the amount of NRL exposure amongst healthcare workers. Studies on What is latex? The term latex has several meanings NRL allergy amongst dental students have shown a link depending on the context in which it is used. Its with the degree of exposure. First and second year dental definition is necessary to avoid confusion. students studies showed no evidence of NRL allergy. However, levels of NRL allergy increased with the Natural rubber latex is the term used to describe seniority of the students, with 6% of third year students the milk-like sap, which is derived from over and 10% of fourth year students respectively being 2000 species of plants. The most commercially used affected. It was concluded that this pattern was due to species is the common rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis. increasing levels of exposure to NRL allergen as the Synthetic rubber is manufactured from oil-based students progressed through dental school.15 products and is made of multiple synthetic polymers. Even in the lower risk general population, there has When the term latex is used generically, it refers been a dramatic increase in the number of reports of to rubber-like compounds and therefore includes both NRL-induced allergy over the past decade. It is unknown synthetic rubber and NRL-based products. why this should be so, although many researchers have Even more confusingly, medical and scientific articles put forward their putative mechanisms: that use the term to describe a suspension of particles within a liquid, even though the particles The increasing use of disposable NRL-based gloves for themselves are not made of NRL-based compounds surgical and medical procedures because of the or synthetic rubber, for example, latex dyes. increased awareness of cross infection leads to Eye Cataract surgery D Cheung and T Gillow 131 increased exposure to NRL proteins.16–18 Hence the allergens, for example, Hev b 1 is a common allergen in risk of exposure to NRL allergens is higher during children with spina bifida but not for healthcare hospital attendance. workers.32,16 Some of the antigens in NRL are nonspecific The use of gloves by the food processing industry to NRL and may be present in other plants. These are may lead to the introduction of NRL proteins into the frequently enzymes that are present in the H. brasiliensis diet and increased exposure.19 plant and that are also present in other plants such as Some proteins, which cause food allergies, may be endochitinases.33 In vitro diagnostic tests that look for cross-reacting with natural rubber latex allergens. serological evidence of previous exposure NRL must Thus patients with allergies to certain foods, for therefore be specific for NRL antigens only.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Genital Allergy C Sonnex
    4 Sex Transm Infect: first published as 10.1136/sti.2003.005132 on 30 January 2004. Downloaded from REVIEW Genital allergy C Sonnex ............................................................................................................................... Sex Transm Infect 2004;80:4–7. doi: 10.1136/sti.2003.005132 Genital allergy should be considered as a possible Local responses consist of genital swelling, burning, irritation, or soreness which may occur diagnosis in all patients with genital soreness or irritation during or soon after intercourse, usually becom- for which no infection or dermatosis can be identified and ing maximal at 24 hours and lasting 2–3 days.45 in whom symptoms remain unchanged or worsen with Semen contact with non-genital skin may also give rise to localised itching and urticaria.67 treatment. Type I and IV hypersensitivity reactions are most Generalised reactions associated with semen commonly encountered and can be assessed by allergy include angioedema of the lips and performing skin prick testing/radioallergosorbent test eyelids,68 laryngeal oedema,9 bronchospasm,10 and anaphylaxis347 but, to date, death has not (RAST) or patch testing, respectively. Type IV reactions been reported. Semen allergy mainly affects (contact dermatitis) may sometimes prove difficult to younger women although postmenopausal cases distinguish clinically from an irritant dermatitis. This clinical are documented.11 12 An increasing intensity of reaction with subsequent episodes of coitus is a review attempts to summarise key features of genital common feature. Levine et al described a married allergy for the practising clinician. woman with a 15 year history of hay fever who ........................................................................... initially presented with swollen eyes, nasal congestion, and sneezing an hour after coitus.
    [Show full text]
  • Latex Allergy Screening Tool These Questions Are Designed to Help Your Physician Determine If You May Have a Latex Sensitivity
    Latex Allergy Screening Tool These questions are designed to help your physician determine if you may have a Latex sensitivity. Name: ____________________________________ __________ Signature: _________________________________ __________ Date: ______ _______________ Please complete the following: Yes No Have you ever had an allergic reaction to latex or rubber products? If so, is your doctor aware of this allergy? Have you ever been tested for a latex allergy? Have you ever had a reaction in your mouth after dental work, such as sores, etc? Does your job/occupation involve contact with products, which contain latex rubber? If “Yes” is checked for any of the below, a physician must review and sign this form. If “No” is checked, a nurse may review and sign this form. Have you had a reaction to any of the following sources of latex/rubber? Yes No Yes No Balloons Rubber Gloves Hot water bottles Rubber bands, balls Foam pillows Baby bottles, nipples Pacifiers Shoes Erasers Elastic bandages Face masks Medical devices such as catheters Adhesive tape, Band‐Aids Latex rubber birth control devices (condoms, diaphragm, etc.) Clothing with elastic or stretch clothes (belts, Other: bras, suspenders, elastic waistbands) After handling latex products, have you had any of the following? Yes No Yes No Difficulty breathing, wheezing Runny nose/congestion Chapping or “cracking” of hands Itching (e.g., of hands, eyes), rash Hives Redness Swelling of the body, tongue or face Excessive tearing or reddened eyes Low blood pressure Other: Do you have a history any of the following? Yes No Yes No Contact dermatitis Asthma, bronchitis Hay fever Eczema Disease of the immune system (such as lupus, etc.) Do you have any food allergies? Yes No Yes No Bananas Kiwi Avocados Chestnuts Papaya Potatoes Tomatoes Peaches Almonds Celery Figs Corn Products Other: Other: Latex Allergy Risk Print Provider Name and Credentials_________________________________________________ Check One: Provider Signature ______________________________________________________________ High Low .
    [Show full text]
  • Latex Allergy/Student Effective Date: 1/1/10
    OCHSNER CLINICAL SCHOOL POLICY Policy #: OCS 400.14 Title: Latex Allergy/Student Effective Date: 1/1/10 PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the identification, follow-up and work practice modification for all OCS medical students with latex sensitivities or allergies to ensure a consistent safe workplace. Students will be classified in the category of Health Care Worker (HCW) on the Ochsner campuses. Health Care Workers with demonstrated latex sensitivity will be provided with engineering controls, protective apparel and other interventions that will minimize opportunities for development of a true latex allergy. HCW’s with a diagnosed latex allergy will be provided a latex safe environment to the extent possible. DEFINITIONS: Latex refers to natural rubber latex and includes products made from dry natural rubber. Natural rubber latex is the product manufactured from a milky fluid derived mainly from the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. High-risk populations are groups known to have a higher risk for latex allergic reactions and include persons: • with occupational exposure to latex, • diagnosed with myelodysplasia, myeloma, congenital urologic abnormalities, or Spina bifida • with history of asthma, hay fever, contact dermatitis, or autoimmune disease (i.e. Lupus), • with food allergies such as bananas, avocados, potatoes, tomatoes, kiwi fruit, peaches, papaya, fruit or chestnuts and • who have exhibited contact dermatitis, itching or redness of the skin following the touching or wearing of latex products. Sensitization is the development of immunological memory in response to exposure to an antigen. Sensitivity is a clinical response that develops after sensitizations. Allergic reactions range from urticaria, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, angiodema, laryngeal edema, cardiovascular changes, GI upset, psychological distress, and bronchospasm, to severe life threatening anaphylaxis.
    [Show full text]
  • Screening Tool
    Natural Rubber Latex Allergy Patient Screening Questionnaire When patients are first being assessed, whether in out-patients, assessment clinics, admission or prior to any intervention in clinical settings, it is important that their allergic status is determined as far as is possible. This assessment tool should aid that process. 1. Initial Assessment i. Ask the patient if they have an allergy to any medicines, foods or other items ii. If the patient states that they have no allergies then treat as normal iii. If the patient states that they are allergic to any of the following, this should trigger additional questioning; balloons, contraceptives, rubber gloves, dental blocks, hot water bottles, erasers, rubber bands/balls, pillows, elastic dressing and bandages, elastic waistbands/underwear. iii. If the patient states that they are allergic to any of the following, this should trigger additional questioning; apples, avocados, bananas, celery, cherries, chestnuts, ficus, figs, grapes, kiwi, latex, mangoes, melons, passion fruit, peaches, pears, pistachios, potatoes, ragweed, strawberries, tomatoes. TREAT AS HIGH RISK 2. Further questions a. Ask the patient what symptoms they experience when they eat/touch the products listed above b. If the patient states any of the following symptoms, further questions should be asked; breathlessness, skin redness, chapping or cracking of hands, swelling of lips or tongue, runny nose, congestion, hives, itching. TREAT AS TYPE I 3. Assessment conclusion If the patient in addition to positive responses to the questions above, suffers from any of the following then treat as a high risk individual and follow the protocol; • Contact dermatitis • Spina bifida • Eczema • Multiple genitourinary • Asthma • Auto-immune disease (Lupus etc) • Hay fever TREAT AS TYPE I If the patient assessment results in a high-risk outcome, then label the patient’s notes and notify all others who may treat the patient.
    [Show full text]
  • Egg Allergy: Diagnosis and Immunotherapy
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences Review Egg Allergy: Diagnosis and Immunotherapy Dulashi Withanage Dona and Cenk Suphioglu * NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Geelong 3216 VIC, Australia; [email protected] * Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +61-3-5227-2886 Received: 1 May 2020; Accepted: 14 July 2020; Published: 16 July 2020 Abstract: Hypersensitivity or an allergy to chicken egg proteins is a predominant symptomatic condition affecting 1 in 20 children in Australia; however, an effective form of therapy has not yet been found. This occurs as the immune system of the allergic individual overreacts when in contact with egg allergens (egg proteins), triggering a complex immune response. The subsequent instantaneous inflammatory immune response is characterized by the excessive production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody against the allergen, T-cell mediators and inflammation. Current allergen-specific approaches to egg allergy diagnosis and treatment lack consistency and therefore pose safety concerns among anaphylactic patients. Immunotherapy has thus far been found to be the most efficient way to treat and relieve symptoms, this includes oral immunotherapy (OIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). A major limitation in immunotherapy, however, is the difficulty in preparing effective and safe extracts from natural allergen sources. Advances in molecular techniques allow for the production of safe and standardized recombinant and hypoallergenic egg variants by targeting the IgE-binding epitopes responsible for clinical allergic symptoms. Site-directed mutagenesis can be performed to create such safe hypoallergens for their potential use in future methods of immunotherapy, providing a feasible standardized therapeutic approach to target egg allergies safely.
    [Show full text]
  • What Is Natural Rubber Latex?
    latex allergy latexallergy What is natural rubber latex? NATURAL RUBBER IS A HIGHLY PROCESSED PLANT PRODUCT FROM THE LATEX OF THE COMMERCIAL RUBBER TREE. ABOUT 90% IS PROCESSED FOR MANUFACTURE OF EXTRUDED RUBBER PRODUCTS, MOULDED GOODS OR PNEUMATIC TYRES. The remaining 10% is used for the manufacture of rubber gloves and other dipped products, such as condoms, swimming caps and balloons. Although there are traces of latex allergen in tyre dust, dipped rubber products are responsible for most allergic reactions. What is a latex allergy? A latex allergy is an allergy to products made from natural rubber latex. The allergy-causing particles become attached to the cornstarch powder in gloves, swimming caps and balloons. Moisture from the skin can enhance this process. The particles can become airborne and inhaled when products are used. Sensitized individuals react to these particles. Milk protein is sometimes mixed in with latex in surgical and household gloves and this can be the cause of reactions in milk allergic individuals. Who is at risk of a latex allergy? Adults and children most at risk are those with other allergies such as eczema, asthma and hayfever.Those who have regular contact with natural rubber latex such as powdered gloves or catheters are the most likely to become sensitized. What are the symptoms of a latex allergy? The reactions can be mild and cause rashes on the hands, itchy swollen eyes, runny nose and sneezing.An asthma attack can occur. latex allergy It is also possible to have a severe life threatening allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock).This is occurs when the latex particles come in contact with mucous membranes.
    [Show full text]
  • Latex Allergy in the Hospital
    Latex Allergy in the Hospital What is a latex allergy? Latex is found in a variety of products, from everyday household items to many articles used in routine medical and dental care. An allergic reaction to natural rubber latex is actually a reaction to a protein contained in the sap of the Brazilian rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). This sap is used in manufacturing latex products. Who is at risk to develop latex allergy? People with spina bifida Health care workers such as: doctors, nurses, surgical staff, dentists, dental hygienists, emergency medical services personnel, lab technicians People with other types of allergies or asthma People who have had many surgeries or medical procedures Rubber industry workers: those working in tire factories, rubber manufacturing and glove manufacturing What are some of the symptoms of latex allergy? Skin rash or itching (generally on the hands) Hives Swollen red skin Swollen lips and tongue with difficulty breathing, wheezing Shortness of breath Dizziness Fainting Abdominal (belly) pain Diarrhea UMHS Hospitals and Health Centers - 1 - In very rare cases people with a latex allergy may suffer an anaphylactic shock, a severe allergic reaction that may be life threatening. Symptoms of anaphylaxis shock include: Throat hoarseness or swelling Persistent wheezing Fainting Low blood pressure The risk of anaphylactic shock seems to be greatest in people who have had: Previous allergic reactions to products that contain latex. Prior anaphylaxis with an unknown cause. What is the treatment? Certain medications may reduce allergy symptoms but the most effective approach is to reduce exposure to latex products. How can I avoid exposure to latex in the hospital? Many hospital items and supplies contain latex.
    [Show full text]
  • Latex Allergy and Foods Positioned Here SUB TITLECARE POSITIONED INSTRUCTIONS HERE
    Title of article is Latex Allergy and Foods positioned here SUB TITLECARE POSITIONED INSTRUCTIONS HERE The foods listed in the chart below have shown to cause allergic reactions in some individuals with latex allergy. Reactions can occur because these foods contain a protein that resembles a protein in latex. If you have had an allergic reaction to any of these foods, you should avoid them in the future. Some allergists recommend that ALL persons with latex allergy should avoid the four foods with the *highest prevalence of reactions. During your hospitalization, avocado, banana, chestnut and kiwi will be omitted from your diet. Please be aware that as more research is done this list may change. LATEX RELATED FOODS *HIGH PREVALENCE OF Moderate Prevalence of Lower Prevalence of REACTION Reaction Reaction Avocado Apple Apricot Banana Carrot Cherry Chestnut Celery Coconut Kiwi Cherimoya Fig Melons Grapes Papaya Loquat Potato Mango Tomato Nectarine Nuts (all) Passion fruit Peach Pear Plum Swiss chard This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse any brand names; any similar products may be used. Herbs and supplements are sold over-the-counter. Kaiser Permanente carries only herb categories for which some evidence exists to show that the herbs may be effective to treat certain medical conditions.
    [Show full text]
  • Oral Allergy Syndrome
    Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust Children’s Allergy Clinic Oral allergy syndrome Information for parents What is oral allergy syndrome? • In the common form, oral allergy syndrome usually causes redness, itching, burning and swelling of the lips, inside of the mouth, tongue and soft palate. A child will often refuse the food once it starts irritating their mouth. • Occasionally itching and swelling of the throat occurs. Other reactions such as hives (similar to nettle rash), conjunctivitis (itchy, watery eyes), rhinitis (inflammation inside the nose), asthma, nausea and vomiting may occur later. • Severe symptoms such as anaphylactic shock or breathing problems are rare. What are the causes? • Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is usually caused by an allergy to certain fruit and vegetables, especially when eaten raw. • Reactions to the same foods when they are cooked are less likely but can sometimes happen. The skin of certain fruit and vegetables can cause a reaction. • OAS is also associated with an allergy to pollen, especially from silver birch, but also grasses, ragweed (ragwort) and mugwort. 75% of people with silver birch allergy will have OAS. Allergic rhinitis symptoms may flare up when these pollens are in season. • OAS can also occur in people allergic to rubber latex. What to do if a child has an allergic reaction If an allergic reaction occurs, the child should stop eating the food immediately and spit it out. Give the child a dose of antihistamine. In the unlikely event that a severe reaction occurs, then dial 999 for an ambulance. page 2 OAS reactions are usually immediate and occur within 1-5 minutes of the problem food coming into contact with the mouth.
    [Show full text]
  • Latex Allergy: Position Paper
    Latex Allergy: Position Paper REVIEW Latex Allergy: Position Paper N Cabañes,1 JM Igea,2 B de la Hoz3 On behalf of the Committee of Latex Allergy of the SEAIC: P Agustín, C Blanco, N Cabañes, J Domínguez, B de la Hoz, JM Igea, M Lázaro, R Lleonart, J Méndez, A Nieto, A Rodríguez, N Rubia, A Tabar, JM Beitia, MC Dieguez, C Martínez-Cócera, S Quirce 1Allergy Department, Hospital Virgen del Valle, Toledo, Spain 2Clínica Alergoasma, Salamanca, Spain 3Servicio de Alergia Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain ■ Abstract Correct management of latex allergy is essential to ensure adequate care of patients who are allergic to latex, which is ubiquitous in the health care setting. In this Position Paper, the Latex Committee of the Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology provides guidelines for the management of latex allergy. Key words: Latex allergy. Guidelines. ■ Resumen El correcto manejo de la alergia al látex es fundamental para garantizar la buena atención de este colectivo de pacientes, dada la ubicuidad de este alergeno en el medio sanitario. El comité de alergia a látex de la SEAIC con este documento de posición pretende resumir de forma clara las directrices a tener en cuenta en esta patología. Palabras clave: Alergia a látex. Recomendaciones. Introduction (with additives), moulding, and vulcanization (a type of polymerization which creates a hard, crystalline structure). Natural rubber is obtained from the Hevea brasiliensis tree. In this type of processing, the protein content is lower, and It takes the form of a milky aqueous suspension and is extracted vulcanization denaturalizes the proteins that remain.
    [Show full text]
  • PE001 Latex Allergy
    Latex Allergy Who's at risk and how to lower risk of a reaction This handout explains latex allergy symptoms, what triggers them, who’s at risk, how to lower risk of an allergic reaction and what to do if a reaction happens. What is latex? Latex is made from tree sap and is used to make rubber products. Latex is found in items in hospitals (more rarely today), the community and at home. It is in some clothing, toys, gloves, balloons, condoms, rubber tires and many other items. Look for other materials like plastic, vinyl or silicone to replace latex items. These do not cause latex allergies. What is latex Latex contains proteins that cause allergies in some people. Signs of an allergy? allergic reaction to latex are: • Whole body reaction leading to shock (anaphylaxis: an-eh-fil-AK-siss): Watery eyes, breathing problems (wheezing) • Skin: Swelling, redness, itching, hives or rash These responses occur when latex items touch the skin, the mucous membranes (like inside the nose, mouth, bladder, vagina or rectum) or are breathed into the lungs like when a rubber balloon pops. For some people, the symptoms can get worse the more contact they have with latex. It is rare, but in some cases, a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis may happen. This is when the mucous membranes swell and breathing may be cut off. It’s important to have an EpiPen or alternative ready and call your doctor or 911 if this happens. Who is at risk for Anyone can develop a latex allergy, but certain groups are at greater risk of developing a latex becoming allergic.
    [Show full text]
  • Allergy to Latex
    Allergy to Latex Latex is the milky sap from the rubber tree. It is used to make many rubber products that are used in the hospital, home and community. If your child is allergic to this milky sap, he or she has a latex allergy. A child who has an allergy to latex will always be allergic to it. Some of the most common products made from latex are latex gloves and rubber balloons. A list of many other items made from latex is on pages 3 to 6. Who Can Become Allergic to Latex? Anyone can become allergic to latex, but some people are at higher risk. These include: § People with spina bifida or myelomeningocele § Those who have other allergies (especially people who are allergic to avocados, bananas, kiwi, or water chestnuts). § Those who have had frequent exposure to latex. § Health care workers The cause of a latex allergy is not known. Some experts believe latex allergies occur more often in patients with spina bifida because they have frequent contact with latex products. Children with spina bifida have many surgeries, diagnostic tests, and bowel and bladder programs that involve using latex products. Signs of an Allergic Reaction § Skin rash or scaliness § Sneezing or coughing § Itching § Wheezing § Hives § Difficulty breathing § Swelling § Anxiety § Itchy, watery or puffy eyes § Rapid heartbeat (palpitations) HH-I-189 5/96, Revised 11/16 Copyright 1996, Nationwide Children's Hospital Allergy to Latex Page 2 of 6 Common Products that Contain Latex § On pages 3 to 6 are products that contain latex and suggested substitutes. Be sure to read the labels.
    [Show full text]