Changes in the characteristics of patients with latex allergy from 1999 to 2014

OBJECTIVES: We conducted a multicenter study using the same questionnaire in 1999 and 2014 to investigate changes in the characteristics of patients with latex allergy. METHODS: We mailed questionnaires on latex allergy to hospitals in Japan that were members of the Japanese Latex Allergy Society. RESULTS: We compared the 25 responses received in 2014 and the 81 responses received in 1999. With regard to the age distribution, the number of patients with latex allergy in their 20s declined significantly from 1999 to 2014 (P=0.004). The largest proportion of latex allergy cases was observed among those aged <10 years. The incidence of cases caused by medical rubber gloves decreased significantly (P=0.004). Moreover, latex-fruit syndrome increased from 15% to 40% (P=0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that the frequency of occurrence of latex allergy in people in their 20s decreased from 1999 to 2014. The largest proportion of latex allergy cases was observed among those aged <10 years. Future measures to protect children are required.