Latex anaphylaxis.

BACKGROUND

Unexplained vascular collapse, airway obstruction, shock, and death after procedures as innocuous as barium enema or anorectal manometry have recently been shown to be due to allergy to latex and anaphylactoid reaction.

METHOD: To review existing medical literature on latex anaphylaxis and to determine who is most at risk and what methods might best prevent morbidity from this condition.

RESULTS

Those most at risk for this catastrophe are patients whose mucous membranes have been extensively exposed to latex, such as patients with spina bifida who frequently undergo urethral catheterization and individuals who have had many previous operative procedures:

CONCLUSIONS

Avoidance of latex exposure is the best prophylaxis in high-risk groups. Prompt resuscitation is critical once the syndrome becomes clinically apparent.