LATEX ALLERGENS SPECIFIC ANTIGENS AND CRO SS-REACTIONS

Natural rubber latex is a complex polyallergenic mixture containing nu merous proteins with variable concentrations according to botanical, t echnical and immunological patterns. Despite apparently discordant res ults, many studies have indicated the role of hevein and its precursor prohevein, rubber elongation factor and beta glucosidases. Another po int concerns the existence of cross-reacting antigens; among phytogene tically different species, especially fruits, some antigens are very w idespread. Lysozyme has been identified as a cross-allergen in natural rubber latex and many plant species. This defense-related protein cou ld be a plant panallergen.