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Latex is natural rubber, a product made primarily from the rubber
tree, Hevea brasiliensis. Some people develop allergic
reactions after repeated contact with latex, especially latex gloves. Allergy
to latex is an increasing health problem.
Latex reactions can vary from minor to life-threatening, or they
may progress from a less serious reaction to a more serious one. Examples
Latex allergy usually affects people who are routinely exposed to
rubber products, such as health care workers and rubber industry workers, and
people who have had multiple surgeries or multiple medical procedures in which
latex equipment and supplies were used.
People who have allergies to foods, such as bananas, chestnuts,
kiwifruit, avocados, and tomatoes, have an increased risk of developing latex
allergy. People with latex allergies may develop allergies to these foods
because the protein in these foods is similar to the protein in rubber. Latex
allergies are also more common in people who have a history of
atopic dermatitis, a skin condition that causes
intense itching and a red, raised rash.
Medical products that may contain latex include:
Personal or household products that may contain latex
Latex allergy is diagnosed with a thorough medical history,
physical exam, and tests. Tests may include a blood test to detect latex
antibodies and glove-use tests and skin tests to detect an adverse reaction to
latex exposure. Glove-use tests and skin tests should always be done by doctors who are experienced and equipped to respond to a serious
Some medicines may help reduce the allergy symptoms, but
complete latex avoidance, though difficult, is the most effective treatment.
Serious reactions may need to be treated in a hospital emergency
If you have had a previous serious reaction to latex, you should
carry and know how to give yourself a shot of epinephrine.
ByHealthwise StaffPrimary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency MedicineAdam Husney, MD - Family MedicineMartin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Current as ofApril 3, 2017
Current as of:
April 3, 2017
William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
& Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
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