Latex allergy

Latex allergy
Latex medical glove
SpecialtyImmunology

Latex allergy is a medical term encompassing a range of allergic reactions to the proteins present in natural rubber latex.[1] It generally develops after repeated exposure to products containing natural rubber latex. When latex-containing medical devices or supplies come in contact with mucous membranes, the membranes may absorb latex proteins. In some susceptible people, the immune system produces antibodies that react immunologically with these antigenic proteins.[2] Many items contain or are made from natural rubber, including shoe soles, pen grips, hot water bottles, elastic bands, rubber gloves, condoms, baby-bottle nipples, and balloons; consequently, there are many possible routes of exposure that may trigger a reaction. People with latex allergies may also have or develop allergic reactions to some fruits, such as bananas.[3]

  1. ^ "Safety and Health Topics | Latex Allergy". Osha.gov. Retrieved 2014-07-31.
  2. ^ "Allergy to Latex Rubber". American Dental Association.
  3. ^ Taylor, J.S. & Erkek, E. (2004). "Latex allergy: diagnosis and management". Dermatologic Therapy. 17 (4): 289–301. doi:10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04024.x. PMID 15327474. S2CID 24748498.