Latex or natural rubber contains allergenic proteins, latex protein, from the rubber tree.
During the production of natural rubber, excess latex protein is rinsed out, but some is left behind and may cause latex allergy.
Natural rubber is used in a very large number of everyday products. Within the health sector natural rubber is found in much medical equipment. Also, natural rubber is found in a wide range of products aimed at businesses and the home.
Most cases of latex allergy are caused by commercial use of rubber gloves, but other products that may be of considerable significance are balloons and condoms.
