Latex Allergy – From Discovery to Component-resolved Diagnosis

Latex allergy is a hypersensitivity response to natural rubber latex (NRL) proteins or rubber chemicals used in the manufacture of latex products. An accurate diagnosis is the first step in the effective management of individuals with latex allergy, especially in high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers and those affected by spina bifida. Diagnosis is based on the clinical history and an accurate allergological evaluation. In the case of type I IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions, which can manifest urticaria, angioedema, rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma and anaphylaxis after latex exposure, skin prick tests or latex-specific IgE (sIgE) antibody detection using serological assays can be performed to confirm sensitization. Instead, in the case of contact dermatitis, a patch test can be applied to confirm the presence of a type IV T cell-mediated hypersensitivity reaction to rubber accelerators or additives. Basophils activation tests or challenge tests may be performed if there’s an incongruity between the clinical history and the results of in vivo and in vitro tests. The aim of this review is to analyze the current state of the art of diagnostic techniques for latex allergy and algorithms employed in clinical practice and possible future developments in this field.