Latex sensitization and allergy in children with spinal dysraphism: A meta-analysis

CONTEXT: Children with Spinal Dysraphism have historically demonstrated a higher prevalence of latex allergy which resulted in efforts to establish latex-free environments for these children. Whether this has reduced latex sensitization and allergy prevalence is uncertain. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review evaluates and summarizes the current evidence of the prevalence of latex allergy in children with spinal dysraphism. METHODS: protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024568889). Baseline characteristics and prevalence of positive IgE, positive skin prick, and allergy to latex were double-screened and extracted independently. Meta-analysis was performed, pooling the prevalence rate under a random effects model. RESULTS: Nineteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Latex sensitization was common: 20% on specific IgE testing (95% CI 11% - 34%, I2 = 87%) and 21% on skin prick testing (95% CI 13% - 32%, I2 = 67%). Latex allergy was present in 6% (95% CI 2% - 17%, I2 = 88%). Latex sensitization and allergy rates appear to be decreasing over time, although the trends were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the persistently high prevalence of latex sensitization and allergy in children with spinal dysraphism. The absence of recent studies and the widespread introduction of latex-free products underscore the need for up-to-date prevalence data. Establishing a dedicated registry would help determine current prevalence rates.