title: Children at risk: latex allergy and spina bifida.
abstract: A collaborative study conducted by nurse coordinators at five centers for children with spina bifida (myelodysplasia) identifies the increased incidence of allergies to latex products--gloves, balloons, and catheters--in this population. Reports from 185 families or adult patients with spina bifida on a questionnaire developed by the nurse coordinators describe the sample characteristics and history to allergies. Statistical analysis concludes that children with spina bifida have a higher incidence of allergies to latex products at 20.4% than the controls at 1.1%. Patient age and the presence of shunted hydrocephalus also correlated positively with latex allergy. The increased risk in this population for latex allergy and the life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) have implications for patient, family, and professional education.
authors.forename: R R
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Leger
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Meeropol
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000451:nursing; D015994:Incidence; D007223:Infant; D007840:Latex / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D009511:New England / Q000453:epidemiology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012307:Risk Factors; D016135:Spinal Dysraphism / Q000150:complications*
chemical_list: D007840:Latex