latex allergy

A high rate of allergic reaction among patients and health care workers was soon recognized, and recent efforts have been made to minimize the use of latex. However, latex gloves continue to be used in some surgical/procedural settings, and many short-term Foley catheters still contain latex

Latex can lead to a spectmm of lgE—mediated type 1 hypersensitivity reactions, including isolated urticarial skin rashes, erythema, wheals), rhino conjunctivitis, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the result of a widespread response to antigen, leading to massive release of histamine and other substances from mast cells and basophils. Multiple organ systems are afiected;