Latex Sensitivity in Hematologic and Oncologic Non-Atopic Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Allergic reactions to latex ranging from contact urticaria to severe anaphylaxis have been reported at increased frequency. These forms of hypersensitivity have affected a large group, including health care workers, workers in the latex industry, and children with spina bifida. This present study has been designed to assess the prevalence of allergic reactions to latex products in a group of pediatric patients with hematologic and oncologic disease. The prevalence of latex sensitization was found to be 20% (n = 6). Latex sensitization was related to the duration of disease (p = 0.05). Our data provide evidence that latex hypersensitivity can be detected in distinct clinical manifestations of those diseases in children. This is the first study that shows pediatric hematologic and oncologic patients have increased risk to latex sensitivity.