Prevalence of latex-specific IgE antibodies in patients being evaluated for allergy

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of detectable latex-specific IgE in patients being evaluated for allergy. Methods: The AlaSTAT assay was used to test for latex-specific IgE in 200 consecutive serum samples sent to our laboratory for total IgE levels. Samples sent for latex-specific IgE were excluded. The population studied included 87 males and 113 females ranging in age from 1 to 82 years of age. Inhibition studies with a latex extract were performed on all positive samples. Chart reviews and questionnaires provided information regarding risk factors for latex allergy and reactions to latex. Results: Twenty-four (12%) subjects were positive for latex-specific IgE. Seventeen of the 24 positive subjects (70.8%) were <18 years of age and all of the strongly positive subjects (7 or 3.5%) were <18 years of age. The geometric means for total IgE for the latex positive and negative subjects were 351 IU/mL and 80 IU/mL respectively, P < .001. The mean percent inhibition with latex was 66%. Chart reviews and questionnaires revealed only 2 of 24 positive subjects were in high risk groups, none of the positive subjects had any history of reactions to latex, and 22 (91.6%) had evidence of atopic disease. Conclusion: In vitro tests may detect latex specific IgE in atopic individuals, especially children, with no history of recurrent latex exposure and no history of adverse reactions to latex.