Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Types of latex reaction: immediate allergy, delayed contact allergy and irritant dermatitis, and latex-fruit syndrome.
Reactions to latex fall into three main groups. Only the first is a true latex allergy.
1. Immediate allergy (type I, IgE-mediated)
2. Delayed contact allergy (type IV)
3. Irritant contact dermatitis
By route of exposure
Latex-fruit syndrome
Some people with type I allergy also react to foods such as banana, avocado, kiwi and chestnut.
Ayurvedic grouping
Ayurveda has no separate category. Skin reactions are described in general terms under skin diseases. This is a traditional framework.
Key point
The type of reaction decides how strictly latex must be avoided and how urgent treatment is.
Before your appointment
Note which items or procedures caused symptoms, how soon symptoms began, and how long they lasted. List any reactions to bananas, avocado, kiwi, chestnut or other foods. Mention your job, past surgeries, catheters, asthma, eczema and other allergies. List medicines, supplements and herbal products, and bring any allergy card or adrenaline injector. Ask about allergy testing, latex-free products and an emergency action plan. Tell your doctor and dentist about the allergy before any procedure. Call 112 for swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem
Explore more articles about this topic
Causes of latex allergy: repeated exposure, glove use, surgeries, atopy, cross-reacting foods and other latex reactions.
Yoga and exercise with latex allergy: latex-free mats and bands, safe activity and being prepared.
What is latex allergy: an immune reaction to natural rubber latex, where it is found, who is at risk and why it matters.
Latex allergy risks: anaphylaxis, asthma, hand dermatitis, food reactions and surgery-related reactions.
Stages of latex allergy: sensitisation, mild, moderate and severe reactions, and how repeat exposure raises risk.
Latex allergy diet: latex-fruit syndrome, foods that may cross-react and why to avoid only trigger foods.
