Latex allergy: an emerging problem in theatres.

With the increasing use of natural rubber products, latex allergy is becoming a major health concern among patients and healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to determine the availability of a latex allergy protocol and essential latex-free products in theatres. The number of latex allergy complaints among patients and theatre personnel were also studied. Postal questionnaires were sent to theatre managers in 205 hospitals in England, Scotland and Wales, 120 (58.5%) of which were returned. Nearly two-thirds of the theatres did not have a latex allergy protocol. Overall less than one-third of theatres in the UK have latex-free products set aside for use. A total of 505 patients with latex allergy underwent surgery; of these, there were four deaths, 18 major anaphylaxes and 483 minor complaints such as skin rash; 239 theatre personnel reported latex allergic reactions and one had a severe anaphylactic reaction. The number of cases with latex-related complications might be reduced if all hospitals had a latex allergy protocol and a range of essential latex-free products.