Because of reports of severe allergic reactions to medical devices containing
latex (natural rubber), the FDA is advising health care professionals to identify
their latex sensitive patients and be prepared to treat allergic reactions promptly.
Patient reactions to latex have ranged from contact urticaria to systemic
anaphylaxis. Latex is a component of many medical devices, including surgical
and examination gloves, catheters, intubation tubes, anesthesia masks, and dental
dams.
Reports to the FDA of allergic reactions to latex-containing medical devices have
increased lately. One brand of latex cuffed enema tips was recently recalled after
several patients died as a result of anaphylactoid reactions during barium enema
procedures. More reports of latex sensitivity have also been found in the medical
literature. Repeated exposure to latex both in medical devices and in other
consumer products may be part of the reason that the prevalence of latex
sensitivity appears to be increasing. For example, it has been reported that 6%
to 7% of surgical personnel and 18% to 40% of spina bifida patients are latex
sensitive.
Proteins in the latex itself appear to be the primary source of the allergic
reactions. Although it is not now known how much protein is likely to cause
severe reactions, the FDA is working with manufacturers of latex-containing
medical devices to make protein levels in their products as low as possible.
FDA’s recommendations to health professionals in regard to this problem are
as follows:
• When taking general histories of patients, include questions about latex
sensitivity. For surgical and radiology patients, spina bifida patients and health
care workers, this recommendation is especially important. Questions about
itching, rash or wheezing after wearing latex gloves or inflating a toy balloon
may be useful. Patients with positive histories should have their charts
flagged.
• If latex sensitivity is suspected, consider using devices made with alternative
materials, such as plastic. For example, a health professional could wear a
non-latex glove over the latex glove if the patient is sensitive. If both the
health professional and the patient are sensitive, a latex middle glove could
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Safety
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