Component-resolved Diagnostics in Latex Allergy: Molecular Insights from Three Clinical Cases
K. Gharbi *
Department of Immunology, Ste Therese Clinic UHC Annaba, Annaba, Algeria.
B. Abdaoui
Department of Immunology, Ste Therese Clinic UHC Annaba, Annaba, Algeria.
H. Meriche
Department of Immunology, Ste Therese Clinic UHC Annaba, Annaba, Algeria.
N.S. Gadiri
Department of Immunology, Ste Therese Clinic UHC Annaba, Annaba, Algeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Natural rubber latex allergy is an important cause of occupational and healthcare-related hypersensitivity. Cross-reactivity with plant-derived foods is frequent and complicates diagnosis.
Case Presentation: We report three women with suspected latex allergy investigated using component-resolved diagnostics (CRD) by the ALEX biochip.
- Case 1: A 33-year-old nurse with recurrent eczematous lesions triggered by medical gloves was sensitized to Hev b 5 (17.3 kUA/L) and Der p 23 (0.5 kUA/L), despite negative skin testing.
- Case 2: A 32-year-old office worker with urticaria, angioedema, and dyspnea showed polysensitization to multiple house dust mite allergens (Der f 1, Der f 2, Der p 1, Der p 2, Der p 23), Fel d 1, and kiwi allergens (Act d 2, Act d 5), in addition to Hev b 11, consistent with latex–fruit syndrome.
- Case 3: A 40-year-old physician with contact eczema was monosensitized to Hev b 11.
Conclusion: CRD provided key insights into differentiating primary latex sensitization from cross-reactivity. This approach refines diagnosis and supports personalized management of latex allergy.
Keywords: Latex allergy, cross-reactivity, component-resolved diagnostics, ALEX biochip, Hev b allergens