What is Latex?
Latex is a milky fluid that comes from the tropical rubber tree (hevea brasiliensis).
Several chemicals are added to the fluid during processing and manufacturing of commercial latex.
Proteins in natural latex (not synthetic) are an allergen in people with significant long term exposure, but how much exposure is unknown.
Long term or cumulative exposure is seen in people who undergo repeated surgeries or medical procedures from early in life.
In spina bifida, neurosurgery or bladder and bowel programs, diagnostic tests, and medical examinations are the main reasons for the intense and constant exposure which leads to increased sensitivity to latex.