Latex allergy.

Latex allergy and hypersensitivity are becoming major health concerns and occupational risks for health care workers. An allergic reaction can be immediate or delayed. Manifestations are either localized-cell mediated (type IV)-or systemic-IgE mediated (type I). The primary populations at risk are children with spina bifida, health care workers, people with atopic allergies, and those with a history of multiple surgeries. This new health care problem may be linked to the increased use of latex gloves and to changes in the manufacturing of gloves to meet the demand. The care of hypersensitive patients is a challenge for health care providers, since natural rubber latex is present in more than 40,000 products.