Caoutchouc and caoutchouc products are considered the common part of our life. It is an elastic product gained by vulcanization of caoutchouc compounds. It consists of caoutchouc which provide elasticity and extensibility and other components (the whole range of chemicals) which modify the caoutchouc properties. This complex system has been causing increasing number of reactions to particular components of caoutchouc in last twenty years. Some professional groups, patients with spina bifida and patients who were repeatedly operated are the most affected groups. Reactions may be on an immunological and nonimmunological basis caused by a whole range of triggers. The paper presents the issue of a caoutchouc containing latex, ways of extraction, processing and its properties in a complex way. The types of reactions, prevalence of particular types of allergies, the most common allergens, diagnostic procedures and treatment possibilities are described in detail.

        Key words: caoutchouc, latex, allergy, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, protein contact dermatitis