Prevalence of latex allergy in hemodialized children and adolescents under 18 years of age in hospitals of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 2006

Introduction:Ig E–mediated allergy to the protein of natural rubber latex is an important global health problem. Due to the specific immunity status of children and adolescents with renal failure, possible exposure to other cross-reactive allergens specially pollen and trees, their exposure to frequent hemodialysis and use of gloves, catheters and other equipment containing latex, this study was designed aiming at determining the prevalence of latex allergy in hemodialyzed children and adolescents under 18 years old in hospitals of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences -2006.Material and Methods:In this descriptive cross-sectional study, reaction of 68 participants to scratch skin test (Prick) with standard latex extract, previous history about sensitivity and their demographic data were analyzed by SPSS, version 11 software using descriptive and inferential statistic such as proportion test, independent t-test and Chi-square.Results:The findings revealed that one of the seven subjects (14.7%) had positive reaction to latex. Proportion test indicated that this prevalence rate was higher than the normal population sensitivity rate (P =0/001). Conclusion:With respect to the results, researchers suggest that exact history taking and the necessary latex allergy tests should be performed in this high risk group to prevent damage and possible side effects. Also, to reduce the sensitivity of latex, we recommend that protein component of the gloves, the catheter and other equipment used containing latex be decreased by Chlorination, Autoclaving and use of Proteolytic enzymes or Nonionic surfactants such as Polyethylene glycol.