Latex Allergy

Contact with objects containing latex can lead from a simple skin redness on the area of contact to urticaria and shortness of breath up to an allergic shock.

Objects containing latex are rubber gloves (surgery, hospital, doctor, dentist and household), balloons or condoms. Due to cross-reactivity, people suffering from latex allergy can also have an allergic reaction to various foods (e.g. kiwi, bananas or chestnut) or to the houseplant Ficus benjamina.

Due to the danger of an allergic shock – especially during surgery – allergy testing must be done when there is any suspicion of a latex allergy. Especially for emergency operations an allergy pass must be issued and as deemed the patient must be provided with emergency medications. Profound information and instructions are important.