CLEVELAND CLINIC FOUNDATION

How to take an Allergy History

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• Allergic manifestations depend on the route of exposure to latex:

1. Cutaneous exposure causes contact pruritus, urticaria, eczema and dermatitis - ask about itch or a rash after wearing gloves or condoms

    

2. Airborne exposure causes rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma - ask about sneezing, nasal congestion, lacrimation and ocular itching in latex-containing environments (e.g. the O.R.)

    

3. Mucosal or intravenous exposure results in angioedema and anaphylaxis - ask about symptoms after blowing up toy balloons, unexplained anaphylaxis during dental, radiological (e.g. barium enema) and surgical procedures.

BUT NOTE that any route of exposure may cause anaphylaxis.

 
• Ask about a history of atopy (hay fever, asthma) and multiple drug allergies as these patients are more likely to be allergic also to latex.

 
• Patients with certain food allergies (e.g.avocado, banana, chestnut) are also more likely to be allergic.