Final answer:
A patient with a food allergy to bananas may have a latex allergy due to cross-reactivity between allergenic proteins in latex and bananas. Latex allergy is a type of Type IV hypersensitivity reaction, which is a delayed-type hypersensitivity response typically manifesting within 48-72 hours after exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient may have a latex allergy if they indicate a food allergy to bananas. This is because latex and certain foods share common allergenic proteins, a phenomenon known as cross-reactivity. Patients sensitive to these proteins in latex might also react to similar proteins found in various fruits, with bananas being a common cross-reactive food. Type IV hypersensitivity is often associated with allergic contact dermatitis, where the reaction happens typically 48-72 hours after exposure. Examples include contact with poison ivy or exposure to latex, which can cause this delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. When individuals with allergies are tested, their blood shows antibodies that bind to specific foreign proteins, which can lead to symptoms like watery, itchy eyes, swollen tissues, and sneezing. Those with latex allergies would similarly develop these unpleasant symptoms upon exposure.