I found the case about latex allergy (Argus, June 19) disturbingly typical of the treatment of allergy sufferers in this health area.

My six-year-old daughter suffers from latex allergy and friends of ours have a son with the same condition.

My daughter also has potentially fatal allergies to milk, eggs, bananas and peanuts.

We have been through the usual channels, with local hospitals telling us allergy testing is not an option as it is either too expensive or not conclusive.

The only option offered was for our daughter to be admitted into hospital at regular intervals, fed with the problem foods and her reactions observed.

With the possibility of anaphylactic shock and the subsequent need for life-saving drugs or even resuscitation, we were horrified that this was all she could be offered.

The British Allergy Foundation was absolutely brilliant (and shocked at the advice we had been given).

It recommended a consultant in Southampton who specialises in allergy. Thanks to a brilliant GP, we were referred and she now has regular allergy tests that are quick, safe and pain free.

We also have the life-saving medication which was also denied to us by the local hospital.

This all happened five years ago and I'd like to believe things have improved - but I know they haven't. The local health authority does not have an allergy specialist who can provide the best diagnosis treatment and management because the knowledge is not up to the minute.

If any readers are in a similar situation and would like to talk to someone, the Allergy Foundation helpline is 020 8303 8583. If you would like to speak to someone in your area they can put you in contact with your nearest support contact.

-Mrs P. Maskell, Chester Terrace, Brighton