What is the latex allergy that I have heard so much about and why is it a problem for children with spina bifida?
A latex allergy can result from repeated exposures to proteins in natural rubber latex through skin contact or inhalation. Reactions usually begin within minutes of exposure to latex, but they can occur hours later and can produce various symptoms. These include skin rash and inflammation, respiratory irritation, asthma, and in rare cases shock. At great risk are persons with spina bifida. Generally, the spina bifida population is exposed to latex at an early age (usually beginning at birth) due to various surgeries that the children require.
