Purpose of review: The characterization of clinically relevant latex allergens and the production of recombinant allergens is now well advanced, but this knowledge needs to be translated into new strategies for the safe and effective specific treatment of latex allergic diseases including asthma and anaphylaxis.
Recent findings: The current status of latex allergy is discussed indicating a changing demographic paradigm. A new wave of latex allergy is emerging outside the healthcare setting with the widespread use of latex products. An increased prevalence in developing countries is also reported. Limited studies on current specific immunotherapy for latex allergy are reviewed, confirming the feasibility but demonstrating an unacceptable risk of adverse events. The characterization of latex allergens and the identification of B and T-cell epitopes point to rational strategies for the generation of hypoallergenic preparations for specific immunotherapy. Results to date for latex allergens are reviewed, including recombinant, chemical modification and synthetic peptide approaches. Candidate hypoallergenic preparations for targeting sensitization to the major allergens Hev b 1, Hev b 3, Hev b 5 and Hev b 6.01 have been identified. Further investigations of optimal regimens for the delivery of specific immunotherapy to induce regulatory T-cell function are warranted.
Summary: The findings point to the selection of suitable hypoallergenic preparations for clinical trials of effective and safe latex allergy immunotherapy.