LATEX ALLERGY
Natural rubber, or latex, allergy can vary from a mild skin rash to nasal and chest symptoms to severe life threatening reactions (anaphylaxis). A detailed latex exposure history is taken as well as an appropriate past medical history will be taken.
There is no FDA approved skin testing material for latex. There is a blood (RAST) test available for latex testing. It is reasonably accurate if positive, but there can be as much as a 25% “false negative” rate. If appropriate detailed instructions in latex avoidance and information about occupational and life style alterations would be discussed.
Additionally, if appropriate instructions and practice in the immediate use of injectable Epinephrine would be given for acute symptoms.