The Challenge
A recent study of antilatex IgE antibodies in blood
donors has shown the prevalence of latex sensitivity may be as high
as 6-12%1 or up to 37
million people in the U.S. alone.
Latex allergy or hypersensitivity occurs when the body's immune
system reacts to proteins found in natural rubber latex. A Type I
systemic reaction is an immediate hypersensitivity reaction
moderated by the development of IgE antibodies to specific proteins
in latex, causing a serious and potentially lethal event. Once
sensitized, most individuals are asymptomatic and unaware of their
antibody status,1,2 therefore clinicians
cannot assume that any patient is free of latex allergy.
Our Solution
We are dedicated to increasing clinical awareness of the
potential risks of latex products, and as a result, we provide
clinicians with a full line of pulmonary
artery catheters and central
venous catheters offered with no natural rubber latex
components.
Our extensive portfolio of critical care catheters
with no natural rubber latex components covers the
full spectrum of patient acuity without compromising
performance.
- Lebenbom-Mansour MH, Oesterle JR, Ownby DR, et al. The
incidence of latex sensitivity in ambulatory surgical patients: a
correlation of historical factors with positive serum
immunoglobulin E levels. Anesth Analg 1997; 85: 44-9
- Page EH, Esswein EJ. NIOSH health hazard evaluation report.
HETA 98-0096-2737 Exempla St. Jospeh Hospital. Cincinnati, OH:
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
1198:1-25
