Ask a doctor on the topic of Allergology

Type IV latex allergy

October 9, 2012 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Michael Schröter

A latex allergy type IV has been diagnosed. Can I continue to play table tennis as a coach and in the team since the racket coverings are made of synthetic and natural rubber, or could a type I allergy develop as a result?

Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good day,

You have a latex allergy Type IV, which means that the allergy is cell-toxic (Type 4, Independent Type, or Cell-mediated Type). Normally, latex is a substance that can cause a Type 2 allergy, which is a delayed allergy.

Type 1 allergies are those where an allergy occurs immediately after contact with allergens such as pollen, food, fungi, animal hair, or animal toxins (e.g. insect venom) or mites.

The rubber obtained from latex is also known as natural rubber. Therefore, latex is also present in table tennis rackets, which can trigger an immune response. Since latex triggers a Type 4 reaction in you, there is no need to expect a Type 1 reaction. But:

One must consider the possibility of cross-allergies, where a substance or other related substances that are "confused" by the body with latex can trigger an allergic reaction. For example, bananas can trigger a Type 1 allergy similar to latex.

The direct transition from Type 4 to Type 1 is unlikely. Ultimately, it depends on how severe your allergic reaction is and how you react to natural rubber.

Rackets made with synthetic rubber have nothing to do with latex, so you could use them instead of natural rubber for safety.

All the best, I am available for any questions.

Best regards,

Dr. Schröter