Latex allergy can occur in an infant and may be missed if not considered. This may occur in the absence of previous operations or other recognized exposures to latex.
Risk factors:
(1) one or both parents have a latex allergy
(2) one or both parents have other significant allergies
Clinical findings:
(1) atopic dermatitis/eczema, especially on the face
(2) wheezing, dyspnea or asthma
(3) swelling of lips or periorbital region
(4) facial flushing
(5) anaphylaxis
Sources of latex to an infant:
(1) pacifier
(2) teat of a milk/formula bottle
(3) nose cleaner
(4) teether
(5) balloon
(6) enema tube
A positive skin prick test to latex confirms the diagnosis.
The child should also be screened for allergies to fruits and vegetables like bananas (see previous section).
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