Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a treatment that modifies the immune system’s response to specific allergens. Unlike symptomatic treatments, AIT addresses the underlying causes of allergic diseases, offering patients a long-term solution. Below, we explore the main types of allergen immunotherapy available:
1. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)
Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) involves the administration of allergen extracts through subcutaneous injections in the arm.
2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) involves administering drops or tablets containing allergen extracts under the tongue. It allows for self-administration of the treatment.
3. Epicutaneous Immunotherapy
Epicutaneous immunotherapy is one of the more recent techniques that uses patches applied to the skin to gradually introduce allergens.
4. Oral Immunotherapy
Primarily used for food allergies, oral immunotherapy consists of the controlled and gradual ingestion of the allergenic food.
5. Intralymphatic Immunotherapy
Intralymphatic immunotherapy is an emerging modality that involves the direct injection of allergens into the lymph nodes. It is still under clinical investigation.
Allergen immunotherapy is a revolutionary tool in managing allergic diseases, providing long-lasting benefits and significantly improving patients’ quality of life.
References:
- Canonica, G. W., Bousquet, J., et al. (2020). “Allergen Immunotherapy: Toward Personalized Treatment.” The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
- Durham, S. R., et al. (2019). “Sublingual Immunotherapy: Evidence and Practice.” Allergy.
- Pajno, G. B., et al. (2021). “Oral Immunotherapy for Food Allergies: Current Advances.” Pediatric Allergy and Immunology.
