Latex allergy (ICD-10-GM Z91.0: Allergy, except allergy to drugs, medications, or biologically active substances, in self-history) refers to the occurrence of allergic symptoms after contact with latex. It is either an allergy of the immediate type (type I) to various water-soluble proteins in natural latex or a contact allergy of type IV to additives in latex products.
In immediate-type (Type I) allergy, the allergens are transmitted aerogenically (through the air). In type IV contact allergy, the allergens are transmitted dermally (through the skin).
Sex ratio: balanced.
The prevalence of latex allergy is about 2% of the total population and up to 17% of health care workers (in Germany).
Course and prognosis: A latex allergy usually causes complaints throughout life. These can be effectively reduced by early diagnosis, exposure prophylaxis (avoidance of contact with the allergen, see “Prevention”) and therapy.
