What is latex IgE?

An IgE-mediated latex allergy is an allergy to natural rubber latex proteins. The body’s immune system makes antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These IgE antibodies react with latex proteins and cause allergy symptoms.

What do IgE test results mean?

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a class of antibody (immune protein) associated with allergic reactions. It is normally found in very small amounts in the blood. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific IgE in the blood in order to detect an allergy to a particular substance.

What foods to avoid if you have a latex allergy?

Prevent an allergic reaction to latex by avoiding these products:

• Dishwashing gloves.
• Some types of carpeting.
• Balloons.
• Rubber toys.
• Hot water bottles.
• Baby bottle nipples.
• Some disposable diapers.
• Rubber bands.

Can I use a latex mattress if I am allergic to latex?

If you are mildly allergic and only experience minor skin irritations, you may still be able to use a natural latex mattress, but you should avoid handling the “naked” latex. If possible, have someone else assemble the mattress for you.

Can you eat bananas with a latex allergy?

If you notice signs of a latex allergy, remove bananas from your fruit basket. The same goes for avocadoes, kiwis, and chestnuts. These foods can trigger reactions in people with a latex-fruit allergy.

What is the best treatment for latex allergy?

Treating a latex allergy. There is no cure for a latex allergy, so the best treatment is avoidance. For mild reactions, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines to treat your symptoms. If you have a severe allergy to latex, injectable epinephrine can be used to prevent anaphylaxis .

What are latex allergies?

A latex allergy is a hypersensitivity to latex, which is a natural substance made of the milky sap of the rubber tree. Latex allergies arise when the immune system, which normally guards the body against bacteria, viruses and toxins, also reacts to latex.

What are signs of latex allergy?

Latex allergy can be mild or severe, with symptoms such as: itchy, red, watery eyes sneezing or runny nose coughing rash or hives chest tightness shortness of breath.

What do IgE class levels mean?

IgE class levels provide an indication of the severity of a suspected allergy. For a patient exhibiting symptoms of an allergic reaction, two types of blood allergy tests exist: the radioallergosorbent, or RAST, and the IgE antibody or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test, also known as ELISA.