Clinical efficacy of immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis

PubMed: 27658025Background: Aeroallergen immunotherapy (AIT) should be considered for patients who exhibit symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR), rhinoconjunctivitis, and/or asthma after natural exposure to allergens and who also demonstrate specific immunoglobulin E antibodies against relevant allergens. Methods: In this paper, clinical efficacy of immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis is reviewed. Result: Subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) is effective for seasonal and perennial AR. Sustained effectiveness requires several years of treatment. SCIT may prevent the development of allergic asthma in children with AR. Sublingual allergen immunotherapy (SLIT) is currently considered an alternative treatment to the subcutaneous route. The use of SLIT has been included in international guidelines for the treatment of AR with or without conjunctivitis. Conclusion: Patients treated with SCIT are at risk of both local and systemic adverse reactions; however, in most cases, symptoms are readily reversible if they are recognized early and treated promptly. The safety profile of SLIT is good; therefore, SLIT can be self-administered by patients in their homes. In this article, we reviewed the efficacy and safety of allergen immunotherapy. Copyright © 2016, OceanSide Publications, Inc.King Saud UniversityPreparation of this paper, including design and planning, was supported by the Continuous Education and Scientific Research Association. The authors extend their appreciation to the International Scientific Partnership Program (ISPP) at King Saud University for funding this research work through ISPP# 0041 The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare pertaining to this articl