RESUMO
Latex allergy is an underdiagnosed condition, and it is the second cause of perioperative anaphylaxis. This condition represents a clinical challenge due to the severity of reactions caused by the exposure to latex in allergic individuals. It is necessary to know the risk factors in order to suspect the diagnosis of latex allergy, and to apply the preventive measures in the medical care of patients allergic to latex. Other safety measures and pre-medication, as avoiding objects and medical equipment made of latex, should be taken since they can cause anaphylaxis. We present six cases of patients with latex allergy, who underwent surgical procedures. In five of them with positive skin test with latex, we used preventive measures and pre-medication 72 hours before and 48 hours after surgery. Only one patient, a sixty year old woman, with urticaria related to kiwi, avocado and potatoes, who was surgically intervened without pre-medication, presented grade IV anaphylaxis.