[Latex allergy].
OBJECTIVE
To review the etiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of latex allergy in the hospital setting, and to establish a list of potentially hazardous drugs.


METHODS
A literature search was performed. A guide about latex-containing drugs (any component) was developed by contacting manufacturers.


RESULTS
The most relevant factor for latex sensitization is exposure extent. Regarding diagnosis the medical history and skin testing are crucial; regarding secondary prevention, identifying the various at-risk groups. Immunotherapy is currently considered a valid option for the management of this condition.


CONCLUSIONS
The development of a guide listing latex-containing drugs is essential for the primary prevention of allergic reactions to this substance in hospital.
Navarrete
M A
MA
Servicios de Alergología, Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén, C/Del Pais Vasco 12, 3 E 23009 Jaén, Spain. mariantonia_8@yahoo.es
Salas
A
A
Palacios
L
L
Marín
J F
JF
Quiralte
J
J
Florido
J F
JF
D000465:Algorithms; D006801:Humans; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations