Latex and latex allergy issues are important topic of discussion. Natural latex is environmentally ‘green' as it is completely biodegradable. Most of the products produced by Unomedical are latex-free, with the exception of Foley catheters and Red Urethral

Latex products are manufactured from a milky fluid derived from the rubber tree, Hevea Brasiliensis. Several chemicals are added to this fluid during the processing and manufacture of commercial latex. Latex do have small presence of proteins that may cause mild to severe allergic reaction to certain individual, although majority of individuals are not allergic to it. These proteins are nature's way of protecting the molecules of latex. At the moment, there is no well accepted standardized test to provide simple or consistent identification of allergy-causing proteins (antigens) and their concentrations. Thus, total protein serves as a useful indicator of the exposure of concern. (Beezhold et al. 1996a). Currently, scientific data are incomplete regarding the natural history of latex allergy.

The case of latex allergy (immediate hypersensitivity) can be more serious reaction to latex than irritant contact dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis. Certain proteins in latex may cause sensitization (positive blood or skin test, with or without symptoms). Even though the amount of exposure needed to cause sensitization or symptoms is not known, exposures at even very low levels can trigger allergic reactions in some sensitized individuals.

Latex is an ideal material for an indwelling catheter because it is soft and flexible, therefore providing high degree of patient comfort. Other materials like PVC and 100% silicone are also available in the market but they are still not comparable to latex, either in terms of comfort and price. Unomedical latex catheters are made with latex formulated to achieve low impurities and high stress-strain properties. Unomedical latex catheters contain less an average of 10 µg/g of protein level when tested in accordance to ASTMD5712-1999. A level that is much lower than the market average.

Nevertheless, other than the presence of protein, latex has other disadvantages such as poor oil and hydrocarbon resistance. As such, do not use petroleum-based ointment or lubricants, as they may cause latex deterioration and balloon catheters to burst. During storage, avoid any contact with oil-based antiseptic phenols or their derivatives, greases, petrolatum jelly, petroleum spirit, paraffin or other related compounds.

Print this page