| pubmed-article:1792436 | pubmed:otherAbstract | PIP: Numerous cases of immediate hypersensitivity to latex have been reported since 1979 involving household and surgical gloves, condoms, and sounds, usually with minor cutaneous symptoms; however, severe symptoms have also been reported during general anesthesia. A 34-year-old woman was hospitalized in October 1989 for Quincke's edema an generalized urticaria, accompanied by acute dyspnea, a few minutes after protected sexual intercourse. Clinical examination was normal with respect to respiration; however, an edema of the eyelids and generalized urticaria was found, which was treated with antihistamines and corticotherapy. The notion of a previous anaphylactic shock during an arteriography in August 1989 and contact urticaria of the hands when using surgical gloves was suggested, as she was an assistant pediatric nurse. Allergic tests indicated seasonal rhinitis. Cutaneous tests for pneumallergens according to the technique of Prick indicated polysensitivity to pollens, as papules of 4-4.5 mm size formed. Cutaneous test with a commercial latex extract was positive, producing a papule of 6 mm. Also tests with different latex-based products (surgical gloves, Durex and Trepharm brand condoms) were strongly positive, producing papules of 6.5 mm and 8.5 mm, respectively. The specific IgE (gamma-E globulin) to latex was of class 3 (8.3 PRU/ml). In the majority or cases reported, besides the positivity of skin tests, the specific IgEs were identified in the serum by the technique of RAST. The incriminated product was the latex derivative of Hevea brasiliensis. Therefore, the existence of allergy to latex was responsible for these symptoms of anaphylactic nature. | lld:pubmed |
