Allergy care pathway for latex allergy

Latex allergy is a reaction to latex products (eg sporting equipment, balloons, contact dermatitis for gloves, condoms, surgical catheters). This is one of several allergy care pathways, which tell health professionals what they need to know in order to provide the best care possible.

About

The College's care pathway for latex allergy is presented in two parts:

  • an algorithm with the stages of ideal care, and
  • a set of competences required to diagnose, treat and optimally manage latex allergy.

The algorithm has numbers which correspond to the competences outlined within the body of the document.

We recommend that this pathway is implemented locally by a multidisciplinary team with a focus on creating networks between staff in primary and community healthcare, social care, education and hospital-based practice to improve services for children with allergic conditions. All specialists should have paediatric training.

Download the full RCPCH Care Pathway for Children with Latex Allergy below.

Definition

Latex allergy is defined as an immune-mediated reaction to latex products (eg sporting equipment, balloons, contact dermatitis for gloves, condoms, surgical catheters); these encompass immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions. This pathway focuses on immediate reactions.