Latex sensitization in children with spina bifida: follow-up comparative study after two years

Background: Previous findings suggest that sensitization to latex in childr en with spins bifida is a dynamic process. Objective: To study if changes appear in the sensitization status after wit hdrawal of latex. Methods: We studied a consecutive sample of 68 children with spina bifida, by means of latex skin prick tests and quantification of serum latex-specif ic IgE on two separate occasions two years apart. Results: Forty-four (65%) were classified as nonsensitized, 6 (9%) showed i ndeterminate results, and 18 (26%) were sensitized to latex, six of whom ha d clinical reactions to latex. They were instructed to avoid latex. In a se cond evaluation, 2 years later, 38 (56%) were classified as nonsensitized, 3 (4%) as indeterminate, and 27 (40%) as sensitized to latex, 11 of whom ha d presented latex symptoms. This meant 22% of spina bifida children demonst rated progressive sensitization, in spite of having adopted a latex-free en vironment at our hospital. It illustrates the progressive character of late x sensitization in these patients. Conclusion: Latex avoidance measures both in the medical and home settings must be stressed. We recommend that children with spina bifida should be pe riodically evaluated regarding latex sensitization.