Latex-fruit syndrome

An association between allergies to latex proteins and to various foods has been reported. Cross-reacting IgE antibodies were demonstrated by RAST and immunoblotting inhibition and a "latex-fruit syndrome" has been postulated . We report on two patients with latex allergy and anaphylactic reactions a fter ingestion of honey melon and mango, respectively. By RAST inhibition, cross-reactivity between natural rubber latex and extracts of honey melon a nd mango could be confirmed.