Latex allergy and anaphylaxis.

Latex allergy is a potential cause of unexplained intraoperative anaphylaxis. Latex allergic reactions range from mild wheal and flare episodes to cardiovascular collapse. High-risk patient populations merit latex allergy testing. Preoperative prophylactic regimens may prevent or attenuate serious intraoperative latex allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Additional work is needed to better characterize and understand latex allergy.