Latex Allergy: A Patient and Health Care System Emergency, , , , Review Article

Latex allergy, an IgE-mediated reaction to proteins retained in finished natural rubber latex products, has become one of the most pervasive problems in medicine. Latex allergy has resulted in death, progressive asthma, severe food allergy from cross-reactivity, and disability of health care professionals with the accompanied loss of self-esteem and income from their inability to work in their chosen profession. This article reviews the risks of latex allergy and proposes strategies for prevention and management of the problem. [Kelly KJ, Walsh-Kelly CM: Latex allergy: A patient and health care system emergency. Ann Emerg Med 1998;32:723-729.]