Latex allergy in patients with myelomeningocele presenting for imaging studies of the urinary tract

Abstract

Objective. We prospectively surveyed patients with myelomeningocele who presented in our department over a 3-month period to determine the frequency of latex allergy in this population.Materials and methods. A questionnaire assessed history of allergy to latex and attitudes toward and use or avoidance of latex-containing products in both medical and non-medical environments.

Results. Surveys were completed by 118 patients (56 boys, 62 girls; mean age 10.4 years, range 0.6–30.9 years). Seventy-two (61 %) had heard of latex allergy and 25 (21 %) reported being allergic to latex. Most allergic patients were performing intermittent self-catheterization (92 %) and tended to be slightly older (mean age 12.7 years) than those not reporting allergy (mean age 9.8 years). Although most reactions were limited to rashes and mucosal irritation, two patients experienced anaphylaxis with severe respiratory symptoms or hypotension or both. No reactions had occurred in the Department of Radiology. While 84 % of patients with previous allergic reactions reported trying to avoid further exposure to latex in the hospital, at home, or in school, only 14 % of non-allergic patients took any special precautions.

Conclusion. Allergy to latex is common in patients with myelomeningocele who are examined in our department. We have developed a policy designed to prevent exposure of such patients to latex during imaging studies.