IGE-mediated natural rubber latex allergy: an update.

Full Abstract

In the past 2 decades, IgE-mediated NRL allergy has become a well-defined condition with recognised risk groups, established diagnostic tools, and adequate prevention strategies (1-3). Furthermore, molecular biology and biochemical techniques have significantly improved our knowledge of the proteins responsible to cause the disease. Clinical manifestations will not be addressed in this review, nor will broad preventive strategies be proposed; these have been discussed elsewhere (4, 5). After a brief introduction this review will focus on specific issues: (1) How do we estimate the prevalence of NRL allergy and who is at risk for clinical sensitisation? (2) What specific allergens cause NRL allergy? How does sensitisation for these allergens occur? Are all patients sensitised for the same allergens? Threshold allergen exposure levels. (4) What is the latex-fruit syndrome? What is the clinical relevance of a positive plant food specific IgE quantification in patients with NRL allergy? (5) How do we diagnose NRL allergy? What are the strengths and weaknesses of currently available diagnostic tools? (7) How do we manage NRL allergy? What is the role of medication and immunotherapy in the treatment of NRL allergy? How do we select an appropriate non-NRL alternative for NRL gloves? Which regulatory provisions have been implemented?

Author information

Author/s: Ebo, D G (DG); Stevens, W J (WJ);

Affiliation: Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B 2610 Antwerpen.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Acta clinica Belgica (Acta Clin Belg), published in Belgium. (Language: eng)

Reference: -2002 Mar-Apr; vol 57 (issue 2) : pp 58-70

Dates: Created 2002/08/02; Completed 2002/08/21; Revised 2004/11/17;

PMID: 12152240, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

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