Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only aetiological treatment for allergic disease, through the controlled and gradual administration of increasing amounts of allergens to which a person is sensitive.
The main objective is to modify the body’s immune response to these allergens, thereby reducing the severity of allergic symptoms. This treatment can be applied in two main ways:
- Subcutaneous immunotherapy: This involves the subcutaneous administration of allergen extracts. Initial doses are very low and are gradually increased over a period of time, with the aim of inducing immunological tolerance.
- Sublingual immunotherapy: This involves the sublingual administration of allergen extracts. As with subcutaneous immunotherapy, doses are increased progressively, but more rapidly.
Allergen immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of respiratory allergies, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma, as well as insect and food allergies. Through this process, it aims to modify the immune response to reduce sensitivity and improve the allergic patient’s quality of life.
AIT not only relieves symptoms, but may also prevent the progression of new allergic sensitivities. However, it is essential that AIT is administered by healthcare professionals specialised in allergology, as it carries risks and may not be suitable for all people with allergies.
In summary, allergen-specific immunotherapy is a valuable approach that offers significant benefits for allergy sufferers, providing an effective alternative for the long-term management of these conditions.
Bibliography:
Abramson MJ, Puy RM, Weiner JM. Allergen immunotherapy for asthma. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003;(4):CD001186.
Durham SR, Emminger W, Kapp A, de Monchy JG, Rak S, Scadding GK, et al. SQ-standardized sublingual grass immunotherapy: confirmation of disease modification 2 years after 3 years of treatment in a randomized trial. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;129(3):717-725.e5.
