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Reactions due to hypersensitivity to latex or thiuram in transfusion recipients

A transfusion medicine physician from Birmingham, United Kingdom, is trying to assess the prevalence of reactions due to hypersensitivity to either latex or thiuram in transfusion recipients. For example, various reports claim that the level of allergy among health care workers is anywhere between 3-17%. When such a reaction occurs, it is not always clear whether the allergic response is to latex gloves, latex proteins, chemicals or other antigens. Specifically, the inquiring blood banker would like to know if colleagues provide blood products that have been collected in a latex-free environment for the transfusion of patients who have known or suspected hypersensitivity to latex or thiuram?

Please submit comments to the e-Network Forum.

Ira A. Shulman, MD
CBBS e-Network Forum Editor & Moderator
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Posted: July 30, 2002

Addenda:

Link Updated: Mar. 17, 2007

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