Latex Allergy: Risk Factors Make an Appointment Refer a Patient Ask a Question Reviewed by Karin A. Pacheco, MD, MSPH (January 01, 2012) Genetics and the environment both play a role in developing a latex allergy. There are groups of people who are more likely to develop a latex allergy than others. High Exposure to Latex Since the amount of exposure to latex is a key factor in developing a latex allergy, healthcare workers and patients (especially children) who undergo multiple surgeries are at risk. Children with spina bifida are the most likely group to develop a latex allergy, in part because their exposures are more likely to be mucosal, e.g. through latex catheters and tubing. Genetic Links to Allergies There is a genetic link to allergies. Therefore, people are at an increased risk for developing an allergy to latex if they have other allergic conditions such as these: Allergy-induced asthma Eczema (atopic dermatitis) Hives (chronic urticaria) Food allergies People who have experienced a reaction after eating banana, kiwi, avocado, potato, strawberries, peaches or chestnuts may also have increased risk for latex allergy. Latex Allergy: Symptoms Latex Allergy: Treatment Clinical Trials For more than 100 years, National Jewish Health has been committed to finding new treatments and cures for diseases. Search our clinical trials.
Reviewed by Karin A. Pacheco, MD, MSPH (January 01, 2012) Genetics and the environment both play a role in developing a latex allergy. There are groups of people who are more likely to develop a latex allergy than others. High Exposure to Latex Since the amount of exposure to latex is a key factor in developing a latex allergy, healthcare workers and patients (especially children) who undergo multiple surgeries are at risk. Children with spina bifida are the most likely group to develop a latex allergy, in part because their exposures are more likely to be mucosal, e.g. through latex catheters and tubing. Genetic Links to Allergies There is a genetic link to allergies. Therefore, people are at an increased risk for developing an allergy to latex if they have other allergic conditions such as these: Allergy-induced asthma Eczema (atopic dermatitis) Hives (chronic urticaria) Food allergies People who have experienced a reaction after eating banana, kiwi, avocado, potato, strawberries, peaches or chestnuts may also have increased risk for latex allergy. Latex Allergy: Symptoms Latex Allergy: Treatment