Intraoperative anaphylaxis due to allergy to latex in children who have cerebral palsy: a report of six cases.

Healthcare professionals caring for children with cerebral palsy should be aware of an association between it and latex anaphylaxis. Between 1989 and 1992 we had 22 patients with intraoperative anaphylactic reactions to latex at our institutions. Of these, six had cerebral palsy. The case histories of these six children are reported here. Most had had multiple operations and ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Preoperative recognition is key to prevention. If suspected from a patient's history, latex antibody testing is available. If needed, anesthesia for these individuals should be given using a latex-free environment with or without medical prophylaxis.