Reported latex sensitivity in pediatric dental patients from hospital- and dental school-based populations.
A number of intraoperative anaphylactic reactions to latex occur in pediatric patients. To determine the frequency and characteristics of latex reactions in pediatric dental patients, a 32-item survey was completed by consenting parental interview at three pediatric dental clinics. Two were hospital-based, specializing in dental care for chronically ill or disabled children. The other was a dental school clinic. A total of 290 surveys were completed, in approximately equal numbers from each of the three clinics. Of the total, 2.7% reported a history of adverse reactions to latex contact. All adverse reactions were reported from the two hospital-based clinics. The rate from the hospital-based clinic specializing in the care of orthopedic and neurologically compromised children (Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, Dallas, TX) was 5.7%. The rate reported from the hospital-based clinic for chronically ill children (Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX) was 2.0%. A history of eczema, a familial history of allergies, and a history of multiple surgical procedures were significantly more common (P < 0.05) in the population reporting adverse reactions to latex. No adverse latex reactions were reported in the one-third of the pediatric population described as normal, healthy children. Adverse reactions were more common in medically compromised children, particularly those with histories of spina bifida and/or multiple surgical procedures.
Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas.
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Rankin
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Seale
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Jones
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D000293:Adolescent; D000367:Age Factors; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000209:etiology*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003740:Dental Clinics; D005260:Female; D005932:Gloves, Surgical; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology*; D007840:Latex / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male
D007840:Latex