Since its ancient discovery, rubber has become an essential part of our lives ranging from pencil erasers to tires and infrastructure foundations. However the widespread use of latex has increased the incidence of latex allergy in the 20th century.

Mechanism of the reaction

Latex allergy is the allergic reaction to any natural rubber derived from the sap of the rubber tree. Manufacturing of rubber into various products involves the addition of more than 200 chemicals. The process may vary depending on the use of the product; hence not all materials made from rubber have the same ability to stimulate an allergic response.

Hevea protein, the protein in the natural rubber latex is thought to be the source of allergic reactions. Routes of allergen exposure may be through the skin, via inhalation, or bloodstream. Food that has been handled by workers using latex gloves may stimulate an allergic response. But the most frequent route is through the skin which is usually through latex gloves.

The allergic reaction occurs when the immune system, which is the body’s normal defense against dangerous foreign substances, “mistakes” this normally harmless protein. The process begins when the allergen stimulates the immune system to manufacture antibodies called Immunoglobulin E and bind to mast cells and basophils causing the release of histamine and other active compounds creating symptoms in the skin and the airways such as nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, flushing, warmth, and lightheadedness. This could be life threatening as the reaction could possible lead to anaphylaxis. Latex could also trigger a different reaction—similar to contact dermatitis, where there is a delayed reaction to the substance. This is characterized by vesicular skin lesions, itching, swelling, redness, crusting and thickening of the skin.

What your Doctor can do for you

Histories along with RAST and skin tests are done to diagnose latex allergy. Nasal challenge may be useful in the future as screening tests for allergy.

Avoidance therapy is the best treatment available for latex allergy. But this is often difficult because of the widespread availability of latex-based products. Those who have experienced anaphylactic reactions are advised to wear Medic Alert bracelet, and bring with them an emergency kit. Paramedics and emergency room staff should use latex-free resuscitation equipment. Susceptible persons are provided with a list of alternative products.

Medications for latex allergy are based on the presenting symptoms. Epinephrine should be available for anaphylactic complication; antihistamines to decrease and prevent further aggravation of the symptoms. Contact dermatitis is treated with topical corticosteroids.

What you can do

The first step to reduce the occurrence of the reaction is to avoid the product. There are a number of support groups available to aid you in living a latex-free life. Allergic reactions that start with a rash are rarely life-threatening. Consult you allergist for further measures.