1
|
Pan Y, Zhang X, Geng H, Yu Y, Liu J, Li M, Yang H, Yuan Y, Xu Y, Wu Y, Wu G, Ma X, Cheng L. Increased Nasal Blimp1 + Treg Cells After Sublingual Immunotherapy Reflect the Efficacy of Treatment in Allergic Rhinitis. Adv Ther 2024; 41:1698-1710. [PMID: 38443650 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-024-02819-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) plays a pivotal role in altering the immune status and tissue responses in allergic rhinitis (AR). This study focuses on the impact of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) involving dust mite drops, exploring the modulation of regulatory T cells (Treg) and their specific marker, BLIMP1, in the nasal mucosa. METHODS Immune cells were isolated from nasal lavage fluid of patients with AR undergoing SLIT (n = 94). Treg cells were analyzed for BLIMP1 expression, and chemokine levels associated with Treg recruitment were assessed using Luminex assay. Patients were categorized on the basis of SLIT efficacy and followed for changes after discontinuation. RESULTS SLIT induced a significant increase in nasal Treg cells (7.09 ± 2.59% vs. 0.75 ± 0.27%, P < 0.0001). BLIMP1 expression in Treg cells notably increased after SLIT (0.36 ± 0.22% to 16.86 ± 5.74%, P < 0.0001). Ineffective SLIT cases exhibited lower levels of nasal Treg and Blimp1 + Treg cells (both P < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis confirmed their potential as efficacy predictors (AUC = 0.908 and 0.968, respectively). SLIT discontinuation led to a significant reduction in Treg and Blimp1 + Treg cells (P < 0.001), emphasizing their maintenance during treatment. Pro-inflammatory cytokines decreased (P < 0.001), while CCL2 associated with Treg recruitment increased (P = 0.0015). CONCLUSION Elevated nasal Blimp1 + Treg cells serve as a predictive biomarker for SLIT responsiveness in pediatric AR. Their influence on immunotherapy effectiveness contributes to a nuanced understanding of SLIT mechanisms, allowing for disease stratification and personalized treatment plans. This study offers scientific support for predicting SLIT efficacy, enhancing the prospects of improved treatment outcomes in AR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Pan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Huanting Geng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Jianyong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Menglin Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Huijun Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Yifang Yuan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Yao Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Yujia Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Geping Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China.
- Office of Science Education, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, 68 West Jiyang Road, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Xingkai Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
- Information Center, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Lei Cheng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Clinical Allergy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang X, Wu G, Ma X, Cheng L. Immune Cell Alterations and PI3K-PKB Pathway Suppression in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis Undergoing Sublingual Immunotherapy. Adv Ther 2024; 41:777-791. [PMID: 38169061 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-023-02747-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our prior clinical study assessed the efficacy and safety of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with standardized Dermatophagoides farina drops on patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) while analyzing the characteristics of adverse reactions. This study was conducted to evaluate the immune cell composition alterations in AR patients before and after SLIT, and to comprehensively investigate the role and changes of antigen-specific immune cells associated with treatment efficacy. METHODS A total of 68 AR patients who completed 12 months of SLIT were included in the study. Before the trial's initiation and after 1 year of SLIT, 10 ml of venous blood was collected. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated using the Ficoll gradient method. The mRNA transcriptome was analyzed using an Affymetrix microarray. The proportions of 22 immune cell types were calculated via the CIBERSORTx platform. Correlations between each immune cell type and SLIT were analyzed. PI3K-PKB pathway dysregulation were analyzed using quantitative PCR and Western blot. Flow cytometry was utilized to assess the percentages of Th1 and Th2 cells. RESULTS Mono-sensitized AR patients exhibited marked increases in plasma cells, activated memory T cells, regulatory T cells, and activated dendritic cells, while experiencing decreased neutrophils and resting dendritic cells. In poly-sensitized AR patients, the most notable change was an increase in regulatory T cells, coupled with decreased T follicular helper cells, resting dendritic cells, and activated mast cells. These findings indicated that SLIT reshaped immune cell profiles in AR patients, and, notably, the specific changes differed between mono-sensitized and poly-sensitized individuals. Furthermore, SLIT appeared to shift the immune response towards a Th2 decrease profile in both groups. Importantly, suppression of the PI3K-PKB pathway was evidenced as inhibition of PKB phosphorylation and the decrease of glycogen synthase kinase 3 β (GSKβ) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) expression after SLIT. CONCLUSION Our study has demonstrated that SLIT treatment led to distinct changes in immune cell profiles between mono-sensitized and poly-sensitized AR patients. Furthermore, SLIT appeared to reduce a Th2 immune response, highlighting its efficacy in AR treatment. Importantly, the study revealed the suppression of the PI3K-PKB pathway, shedding light on the immunological mechanisms underlying SLIT's effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Geping Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China.
| | - Xingkai Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 215600, China
| | - Lei Cheng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Clinical Allergy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee HY, Lee SM, Kang SY, Kim K, Kim JH, Ryu G, Min JY, Park KH, Park SY, Sung M, Lee Y, Yang EA, Jee HM, Ha EK, Shin YS, Chung EH, Choi SH, Koh YI, Kim ST, Nahm DH, Park JW, Shim JY, An YM, Han DH, Han MY, Lee YW, Choi JH. KAAACI Guidelines for Allergen Immunotherapy. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2023; 15:725-756. [PMID: 37957792 PMCID: PMC10643862 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2023.15.6.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a causative treatment for various allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, and bee venom allergy that induces tolerance to offending allergens. The need for uniform practice guidelines in AIT is continuously growing because of the increasing discovery of potential candidates for AIT and evolving interest in new therapeutic approaches. This guideline is an updated version of the Korean Academy of Asthma Allergy and Clinical Immunology recommendations for AIT published in 2010. This updated guideline proposes an expert opinion by allergy, pediatrics, and otorhinolaryngology specialists with an extensive literature review. The guideline deals with basic knowledge and methodological aspects of AIT, including mechanisms, clinical efficacy, patient selection, allergens extract selection, schedule and doses, management of adverse reactions, efficacy measurements, and special consideration in pediatrics. The guidelines for sublingual immunotherapy will be covered in detail in a separate article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwa Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Min Lee
- Division of Pulmonology and Allergy, Department of Internal Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Sung-Yoon Kang
- Division of Pulmonology and Allergy, Department of Internal Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Kyunghoon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Hee Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gwanghui Ryu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin-Young Min
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Hee Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - So-Young Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Gwangmyeong, Korea
| | - Myongsoon Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Soonchunhyang University Gumi Hospital, Gumi, Korea
| | - Youngsoo Lee
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Eun-Ae Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hye Mi Jee
- Department of Pediatrics, CHA University School of Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Eun Kyo Ha
- Department of Pediatrics, Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoo Seob Shin
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Eun Hee Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Sun Hee Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Il Koh
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Seon Tae Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Dong-Ho Nahm
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Jung Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Yeon Shim
- Department of Pediatrics, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Doo Hee Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Man Yong Han
- Department of Pediatrics, CHA University School of Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Yong Won Lee
- Division of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Health Policy Research, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, Korea.
| | - Jeong-Hee Choi
- Department of Pulmonology and Allergy, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hwaseong, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Aarestrup FM, Taketomi EA, Santos Galvão CE, Gagete E, Nóbrega Machado Arruda AC, Alves GB, Véras de Araújo Gueiros Lira G, Gonçalves MR, Couto Miziara MG, Maranhão Casado SS, Curi SV, Rufino Pereira VA, Sales V, Solé D, de Paula Motta Rubini N, Cavalcanti Sarinho ES. Good clinical practice recommendations in allergen immunotherapy: Position paper of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology – ASBAI. World Allergy Organ J 2022; 15:100697. [PMID: 36254179 PMCID: PMC9513275 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2022.100697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
|
5
|
Abstract
Clinical decision-making in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis management involves a significant degree of complexity given the number of pharmaceutical agents; the option for allergen immunotherapy (AIT); and the risk for disease advancement, including the development of asthma as well as new environmental allergic sensitivities. Given the complex array of treatment options that are currently available, there is an opportunity to use a shared decision-making (SDM) approach with associated aids and tools that facilitate the interactive participation of practitioners and patients in the SDM process. This article reviews the general constructs of SDM, the unmet need for SDM aids, the collection of patient preference data for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, the utility of SDM aids which have been specifically created for AIT, and outlines actionable steps to implement AIT SDM in clinical practice.
Collapse
|
6
|
Immunotherapy Update: What Delivery Techniques Are Available? CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40136-022-00394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
7
|
Gray-Ffrench M, Fernandes RM, Sinha IP, Abrams EM. Allergen Management in Children with Type 2-High Asthma. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:381-394. [PMID: 35378923 PMCID: PMC8976481 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s276994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Children exposed to various indoor and outdoor allergens are placed at an increased risk of developing asthma in later life, with sensitization in these individuals being a strong predictor of disease morbidity. In addition, aeroallergen exposure influences asthma outcomes through an interplay with adverse determinants of health. The goal of this review is to provide an introductory overview of factors related to aeroallergen exposure in type 2-high childhood asthma. These include the relevance of exposure in asthma exacerbations and severity, and the evidence-base for avoidance and treatment for sensitization to these allergens. This review will focus on both indoor aeroallergens (house dust mite, pet, cockroach, mold, and rodent) and outdoor aeroallergens (pollens and molds). Treatment of aeroallergen sensitization in children with asthma includes avoidance and removal measures, although there is limited evidence of clinical benefit especially with single-strategy approaches. We will also address the interplay of aeroallergens and climate change, adverse social determinants, and the current COVID-19 pandemic, when we have seen a dramatic reduction in asthma exacerbations and emergency department visits among children. While there are many factors that are hypothesized to contribute to this reduction, among them is a reduced exposure to outdoor seasonal aeroallergens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricardo M Fernandes
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ian P Sinha
- Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Elissa M Abrams
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Correspondence: Elissa M Abrams, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Manitoba, FE125-685 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R2A 5L9, Canada, Tel +1 204-255-7650, Fax +1 204-254-0730, Email
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pitsios C, Petalas K, Dimitriou A, Parperis K, Gerasimidou K, Chliva C. Workup and Clinical Assessment for Allergen Immunotherapy Candidates. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040653. [PMID: 35203303 PMCID: PMC8870157 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergen Immunotherapy (AIT) is a well-established, efficient, and safe way to treat respiratory and insect-venom allergies. After determining the diagnosis of the clinically relevant culprit allergen, AIT can be prescribed. However, not all patients are eligible for AIT, since some diseases/conditions represent contraindications to AIT use, as described in several guidelines. Allergists are often preoccupied on whether an extensive workup should be ordered in apparently healthy AIT candidates in order to detect contra-indicated diseases and conditions. These preoccupations often arise from clinical, ethical and legal issues. The aim of this article is to suggest an approach to the workup and assessment of the presence of any underlying diseases/conditions in patients with no case history before the start of AIT. Notably, there is a lack of published studies on the appropriate evaluation of AIT candidates, with no globally accepted guidelines. It appears that Allergists are mostly deciding based on their AIT training, as well as their clinical experience. Guidance is based mainly on experts’ opinions; the suggested preliminary workup can be divided into mandatory and optional testing. The evaluation for possible underlying neoplastic, autoimmune, and cardiovascular diseases, primary and acquired immunodeficiencies and pregnancy, might be helpful but only in subjects for whom the history and clinical examination raise suspicion of these conditions. A workup without any reasonable correlation with potential contraindications is useless. In conclusion, the evaluation of each individual candidate for possible medical conditions should be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Konstantinos Petalas
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 251 General Airforce Hospital, 155 61 Athens, Greece;
| | | | | | - Kyriaki Gerasimidou
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Caterina Chliva
- Allergy Unit, 2nd Department of Dermatology and Venereology, “Attikon” General University Hospital, 124 61 Haidari, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kim CK, Callaway Z, Park JS, Kwon E. Efficacy of subcutaneous immunotherapy for patients with asthma and allergic rhinitis in Korea: effect on eosinophilic inflammation. Asia Pac Allergy 2021; 11:e43. [PMID: 34786373 PMCID: PMC8563102 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2021.11.e43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atopic asthma (AA) and allergic rhinitis (AR) are often seen as comorbidities and specific immunotherapy (SIT) is considered evidence-based treatment for them both. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of multiallergen subcutaneous SIT (SCIT) in reducing nasal and sputum eosinophilia, symptom scores, and impaired lung function in Korean pediatric patients with AR and AA. Methods Children aged 6-15 years with a documented history of bronchial asthma and seasonal/perennial AR were recruited then randomly selected to 1 of 2 groups: "immunotherapy group" (inhaled corticosteroids [ICS] and short-acting beta2-agonist [SABA] + subcutaneous injection of standardized extracts of up to 4 allergens [n = 53]) or "drug only group" (ICS and SABA only [n = 19]). All data were collected retrospectively. Results Comparing the 2 treatment groups, the immunotherapy group showed a significantly (p = 0.006) greater reduction in nasal eosinophilia over the 3-year treatment period. Only the immunotherapy group exhibited a significant reduction in sputum eosinophilia over the 3-year treatment period (p = 0.003). Fifty-one point one percent of patients in the immunotherapy group showed significant improvement in the methacholine challenge test negative conversion rate compared to only 17.65% in the drug only group (p = 0.0168). There were significantly greater improvements in symptom scores in the immunotherapy group compared to the drug only group. For all allergens tested, only house dust mite reactivity changed significantly over the treatment period and only in the immunotherapy group (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus [p < 0.0001] and Dermatophagoides farina [p = 0.035]). Conclusion SCIT was associated with greater improvements in lung function and bronchial hyperresponsiveness and reductions in nasal and sputum eosinophilia and allergen reactivity. Changes in symptom scores were also much greater in patients receiving SCIT when compared to those who did not receive it. Korean children with AA and AR respond well to long-term multiallergen SCIT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Keun Kim
- Asthma & Allergy Center, Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Zak Callaway
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jin-Sung Park
- Asthma & Allergy Center, Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Eunmi Kwon
- Asthma & Allergy Center, Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Robertson K, Montazeri N, Shelke U, Jeimy S, Kim H. A single centre retrospective study of systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2020; 16:93. [PMID: 33292437 PMCID: PMC7607692 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-020-00491-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is the standard approach for treating patients with sensitizations to aeroallergens. However, immunotherapy can trigger severe systemic reactions if delivered inappropriately or to high risk patients. We sought to characterize and quantify SCIT systemic reactions requiring epinephrine administration during a 6-year period in a Canadian setting following the recommendations for components and dosages published in the 2010 Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) Immunotherapy Manual. Methods A single centre retrospective chart review was performed for all patients with systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy requiring intramuscular epinephrine injection between January 2011 and October 2017. Each systemic reaction requiring epinephrine was reviewed for baseline patient characteristics, details of the reaction, and reaction severity. Research ethics approval was obtained through McMaster University. Results 28 of 380 patients experienced a systemic reaction requiring epinephrine administration, with an incidence rate of 1 per 1,047 injection visits (0.095%). 26 of the 28 reactions occurred within the mandatory 30-minute observation period post allergen immunotherapy. Of the 28 patients that experienced a systemic reaction to SCIT, 11 patients had asthma and 5 patients had a history of possible food allergy. All of the systemic reactions occurred during injections from vial number 4, and five patients reacted to their first shot of a re-ordered extract. 10 of the 28 patients required more than one intramuscular injection of epinephrine, and 20 of 28 patients were transferred to the hospital by ambulance. Conclusions This is the first Canadian study to review patients with systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy. Several best practice methods were employed throughout the study to optimize subcutaneous delivery of immunotherapy extract, and our recorded per injection incidence rate for systemic reactions was comparable or below the rate published in similar studies. The recommendations in the CSACI Immunotherapy Manual provide an approach to standardizing prescriptions for SCIT to maximize immunotherapy efficacy and reduce the risk of systemic reactions, though similar studies in larger multicenter settings are needed to confirm these observations. These observations provide important objective information to clinicians about the potential risks for systemic reactions in patients considering SCIT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara Robertson
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, St. Joseph's Hospital, Western University, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada.
| | - Nazanin Montazeri
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, St. Joseph's Hospital, Western University, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Urvashi Shelke
- Department of Sociology and Legal Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Samira Jeimy
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, St. Joseph's Hospital, Western University, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Harold Kim
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, St. Joseph's Hospital, Western University, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada.,Division of Clinical Immunology & Allergy, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Belgage Medical Arts Centre Suite 205, 525 Belmont Avenue West, Kitchener, ON, N2M 5E2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Amrol DJ, Baroody FM, Bernstein JA, Craig TJ, Dinakar C, Ellis AK, Finegold I, Golden DBK, Greenhawt MJ, Hagan JB, Horner CC, Khan DA, Lang DM, Larenas-Linnemann DES, Lieberman JA, Meltzer EO, Oppenheimer JJ, Rank MA, Shaker MS, Shaw JL, Steven GC, Stukus DR, Wang J, Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Dinakar C, Ellis AK, Golden DBK, Greenhawt MJ, Horner CC, Khan DA, Lang DM, Lieberman JA, Oppenheimer JJ, Rank MA, Shaker MS, Stukus DR, Wang J, Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Amrol DJ, Baroody FM, Bernstein JA, Craig TJ, Finegold I, Hagan JB, Larenas-Linnemann DES, Meltzer EO, Shaw JL, Steven GC. Rhinitis 2020: A practice parameter update. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2020; 146:721-767. [PMID: 32707227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This comprehensive practice parameter for allergic rhinitis (AR) and nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) provides updated guidance on diagnosis, assessment, selection of monotherapy and combination pharmacologic options, and allergen immunotherapy for AR. Newer information about local AR is reviewed. Cough is emphasized as a common symptom in both AR and NAR. Food allergy testing is not recommended in the routine evaluation of rhinitis. Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) remain the preferred monotherapy for persistent AR, but additional studies support the additive benefit of combination treatment with INCS and intranasal antihistamines in both AR and NAR. Either intranasal antihistamines or INCS may be offered as first-line monotherapy for NAR. Montelukast should only be used for AR if there has been an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies. Depot parenteral corticosteroids are not recommended for treatment of AR due to potential risks. While intranasal decongestants generally should be limited to short-term use to prevent rebound congestion, in limited circumstances, patients receiving regimens that include an INCS may be offered, in addition, an intranasal decongestant for up to 4 weeks. Neither acupuncture nor herbal products have adequate studies to support their use for AR. Oral decongestants should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. Recommendations for use of subcutaneous and sublingual tablet allergen immunotherapy in AR are provided. Algorithms based on a combination of evidence and expert opinion are provided to guide in the selection of pharmacologic options for intermittent and persistent AR and NAR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Dykewicz
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Mo.
| | - Dana V Wallace
- Department of Medicine, Nova Southeastern Allopathic Medical School, Fort Lauderdale, Fla
| | - David J Amrol
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Fuad M Baroody
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Allergy Section, Division of Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Timothy J Craig
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Penn State University, Hershey, Pa
| | - Chitra Dinakar
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ira Finegold
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai West, New York, NY
| | - David B K Golden
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md
| | - Matthew J Greenhawt
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - John B Hagan
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Caroline C Horner
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Mo
| | - David A Khan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - David M Lang
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Jay A Lieberman
- Division of Pulmonology Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tenn
| | - Eli O Meltzer
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, Calif; Allergy and Asthma Medical Group and Research Center, San Diego, Calif
| | - John J Oppenheimer
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine and Allergic & Immunologic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ; Pulmonary and Allergy Associates, Morristown, NJ
| | - Matthew A Rank
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Marcus S Shaker
- Department of Pediatrics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH
| | | | | | - David R Stukus
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Julie Wang
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
One-year evaluation of clinical and immunological efficacy and safety of sublingual versus subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy in allergic conjunctivitis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 257:1989-1996. [DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04389-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
|
13
|
Kim JY, Han DH, Won TB, Kim HJ, Lee CH, Rhee CS, Kim DY. Immunologic modification in mono- and poly-sensitized patients after sublingual immunotherapy. Laryngoscope 2018; 129:E170-E177. [PMID: 30548878 DOI: 10.1002/lary.27721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS To compare immunologic modification and treatment outcomes after 2 years of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with house dust mite extracts (HDM) between monosensitized and polysensitized patients with allergic rhinitis. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Among the patients who were prospectively enrolled in the SLIT cohort study, patients with allergic rhinitis who were sensitized to HDM and treated with SLIT for at least 2 years were studied. All participants underwent serologic tests at baseline and after SLIT to evaluate changes in immunologic parameters. The total nasal symptom score (TNSS) was measured before and after SLIT, and effective and less effective responder groups were categorized depending on whether patients had a TNSS reduction of 50%, as compared with baseline. RESULTS The increase in Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae specific immunoglobulin G4 levels was significantly higher in monosensitized patients than in polysensitized patients (P = .020 and P = .005, respectively). The TNSS significantly improved after SLIT in both the monosensitized and polysensitized groups (P < .001 in both groups). However, the difference in the changes in TNSS from baseline was not significant between the two groups (P = .374). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated different immunologic modifications after SLIT between monosensitized and polysensitized patients. However, patients in the polysensitized group who were treated with single-allergen SLIT experienced clinical improvement in TNSS that was comparable with that in the monosensitized group despite demonstrating different immunologic changes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2b Laryngoscope, 129:E170-E177, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Youp Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Armed Forces Capital Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Doo Hee Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Bin Won
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Jik Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chul Hee Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chae-Seo Rhee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Dong-Young Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abramowicz M, Kruszewski J, Chciałowski A. Evaluation of the placebo effect in the trials of allergen immunotherapy effectiveness: meta-analysis of randomized and placebo-controlled trials. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2018; 35:620-625. [PMID: 30618532 PMCID: PMC6320494 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2018.77614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The total effect of the method of treatment is composed of its specific activity depending on its impact on the disease mechanism and the non-specific activity, i.e. the placebo effect. Many methods of treatment make use of such an inflammatory action. AIM To assess the placebo effect in the overall result of the specific immunotherapy and the analysis of its dependence on the type of specific immunotherapy, the disease, the age of a patient, the type of allergy, indicators used (objective and subjective), in patients with allergic diseases - asthma, allergic rhinitis and/or allergic conjunctivitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic review of Medline database was conducted using the EntrezPubmed search engine to find randomized placebo-controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of specific immunotherapy in the treatment of asthma, allergic rhinitis and/or allergic conjunctivitis. After determining the contribution of the placebo effect for each of the test subjects, the calculation involved the average share of the placebo effect depending on the type of specific immunotherapy used, the type of disease, the age of the test subject, the type of allergy and the used measures of their effectiveness. RESULTS The share of the placebo effect in the overall specific immunotherapy effect amounted to 39% and was comparable in the analyzed disease entities. A significantly higher share (p < 0.01) of 68% of the placebo effect in adult patients treated with sublingual immunotherapy vs. 29% in adult patients treated with subcutaneous immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michał Abramowicz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Kruszewski
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Chciałowski
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ramesh M, Karagic M. New modalities of allergen immunotherapy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2848-2863. [PMID: 30183485 PMCID: PMC6343630 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1502126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy is a rapidly evolving field. Although subcutaneous immunotherapy has been practiced for over a hundred years, improved understanding of the underlying immunological mechanisms has led to the development of new, efficacious and better tolerated allergen-derivatives, adjuvants and encapsulated allergens. Diverse routes of allergen immunotherapy - oral, sublingual, epicutanoeus and intralymphatic - are enabling immunotherapy for anaphylactic food allergies and pollen-food allergy syndrome, while improving the tolerability and effectiveness of aeroallergen immunotherapy. The addition of Anti-IgE therapy decreases adverse effects of subcutaneous and oral immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
16
|
Allergic Rhinitis and Other Atopic Diseases in Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-018-0164-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
17
|
Hoover H, Leatherman B, Ryan M, McMains K, Veling M. Evidence-based dosing of maintenance subcutaneous immunotherapy: a contemporary review of state-of-the-art practice. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2018; 8:806-816. [PMID: 29631326 DOI: 10.1002/alr.22118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subcutaneous immunotherapy is an effective allergy treatment only if properly dosed. In this article we review the data on the probable effective dose range for subcutaneous immunotherapy and convert the recommended doses into a clinically relevant format. METHODS A comprehensive literature search of dose-response subcutaneous immunotherapy studies was done of EBM databases, Medline database, PreMedline, and the National Guideline Clearinghouse for the period 1980-2016. Recommended doses were converted to the volume of allergen extract that should be added to a 5-mL maintenance vial. RESULTS A safe and effective dose for subcutaneous immunotherapy is likely 5-20 μg of major allergen per injection. A 0.5-mL injection from a 5-mL maintenance vial containing 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract of each allergen should reach the lower end of the probable effective dose range for most allergens. A larger volume of extract is required to reach that range when treatment includes cat, dog, or only 1 dust mite. Increasing beyond the commonly prescribed 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract added to a 5-mL treatment vial is reasonable for nearly all allergens to achieve a maintenance dose higher in the probable effective dose range. CONCLUSION Current otolaryngic allergy practice usually escalates patients to 0.5-mL injections from 5-mL maintenance vials containing 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract of each allergen. With the main exceptions of cat and dog, those injections administered 1 or 2 times per month likely provide an efficacious dose of allergen and are consistent with published guidelines. A larger volume of extract should be considered in certain clinical situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hunter Hoover
- Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat Associates, Charlotte, NC
| | | | - Matthew Ryan
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Kevin McMains
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Maria Veling
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ferrando M, Racca F, Madeira LNG, Heffler E, Passalacqua G, Puggioni F, Stomeo N, Canonica GW. A critical appraisal on AIT in childhood asthma. Clin Mol Allergy 2018; 16:6. [PMID: 29527129 PMCID: PMC5839070 DOI: 10.1186/s12948-018-0085-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease-modifying treatment approved for allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma and represents a suitable therapeutic option, especially in childhood, to modify the progression of respiratory allergic diseases. Starting from the previous "generic class effect" evaluation, as testified by the numerous meta analyses, AIT is now considered a product-specific pathogenic-oriented treatment. BACKGROUND AIT was empirically proposed more than one century ago in the subcutaneous form (SCIT), but the IgE-mediated mechanism of allergy was elucidated only after 50 years of clinical use of the treatment. The sublingual administration (SLIT) was developed during the 1980 ties, to achieve an improvement in safety and convenience. While SCIT is approved in the United States for the treatment of asthmatic patients with more than 12 years, so far few trials evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of SLIT in children with allergic asthma, although the indications and some aspects remain unclear. Certainly, due to compliance problems, the age below 3 years may be reasonably considered a practical contraindication. CONCLUSIONS Given that some specific AIT products are effective and approved as drugs (AIFA, EMA, FDA), the use in children is still debated. Some aspects still need robust confirm: (a) the safety of AIT in asthma; (b) the optimal regimen of administration; (c) the role of AIT as preventative treatment for asthma development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Ferrando
- Allergy & Respiratory Diseases, DIMI Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Francesca Racca
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Lorena Nascimento Girardi Madeira
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
- Pediatrics, Allergy and Respiratory Disease, Mater Dei Hospital, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Enrico Heffler
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Giovanni Passalacqua
- Allergy & Respiratory Diseases, DIMI Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Puggioni
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Niccolò Stomeo
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Giorgio Walter Canonica
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy Clinic, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Via Alessandro Manzoni 113, Rozzano, MI Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, MI Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mirra V, Montella S, Santamaria F. Pediatric severe asthma: a case series report and perspectives on anti-IgE treatment. BMC Pediatr 2018; 18:73. [PMID: 29466963 PMCID: PMC5820802 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-018-1019-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The primary goal of asthma management is to achieve disease control for reducing the risk of future exacerbations and progressive loss of lung function. Asthma not responding to treatment may result in significant morbidity. In many children with uncontrolled symptoms, the diagnosis of asthma may be wrong or adherence to treatment may be poor. It is then crucial to distinguish these cases from the truly “severe therapy-resistant” asthmatics by a proper filtering process. Herein we report on four cases diagnosed as difficult asthma, detail the workup that resulted in the ultimate diagnosis, and provide the process that led to the prescription of omalizumab. Case presentation All children had been initially referred because of asthma not responding to long-term treatment with high-dose inhaled steroids, long-acting β2-agonists and leukotriene receptor antagonists. Definitive diagnosis was severe asthma. Three out four patients were treated with omalizumab, which improved asthma control and patients’ quality of life. We reviewed the current literature on the diagnostic approach to the disease and on the comorbidities associated with difficult asthma and presented the perspectives on omalizumab treatment in children and adolescents. Based on the evidence from the literature review, we also proposed an algorithm for the diagnosis of pediatric difficult-to-treat and severe asthma. Conclusions The management of asthma is becoming much more patient-specific, as more and more is learned about the biology behind the development and progression of asthma. The addition of omalizumab, the first targeted biological treatment approved for asthma, has led to renewed optimism in the management of children and adolescents with atopic severe asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Mirra
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Montella
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Santamaria
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Plunkett G. Update: stability of allergen extracts to establish expiration dating. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2018; 24:261-9. [PMID: 27092907 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0000000000000248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The article reviews studies pertaining to US manufactured allergen extract stability that contribute to guidance for expiration dating for bulk concentrates, diluted patient testing and treatment vials, and adjustments following elevated temperature excursions. RECENT FINDINGS Studies on allergen stability were completed to satisfy the Food and Drug Administration requirements supporting labeled expiration dating for standardized short ragweed, dust mites, cat, grass, and venom extracts and are not published. These studies demonstrated the stability enhancing parameters of 50% glycerin and support the Food and Drug Administration mandated expiration of nonstandardized extracts allowing glycerin extracts twice the dating of nonglycerin aqueous extracts. Patient vials are commonly given 6-12 months dating. There is adequate evidence that human serum albumin stabilizes low protein diluted vials. High protease allergens such as molds and insects compromised potency of pollens when mixed. Subsequent work continued to define the effects of diluents on extract dilutions, temperature excursions that occasionally occur with shipping or refrigerator malfunctions, and allergen compatibility. SUMMARY Potency has been determined for allergen dilutions with diluents typically used for allergen immunotherapy. These studies along with changes of potency under various storage conditions and mixing designed to improve our guidance on expiration dating of allergen extracts will be discussed.
Collapse
|
21
|
Kim SH, Kim SH, Chung SJ, Kim JH, Lee SY, Kim BK, Lim KW, Chang YS. Changes in basophil activation during immunotherapy with house dust mite and mugwort in patients with allergic rhinitis. Asia Pac Allergy 2018; 8:e6. [PMID: 29423373 PMCID: PMC5796966 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2018.8.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The basophil activation test (BAT) is a promising tool for monitoring allergen-specific immunotherapy responses. Objective We aimed to investigate the changes in basophil activation in response to the inhalant allergens of house dust mite (HDM) and mugwort pollen during immunotherapy in patients with allergic rhinitis. Methods We enrolled patients with allergic rhinitis who were to receive subcutaneous immunotherapy for the inhalant allergens HDM or mugwort. A BAT was performed to assess CD63 upregulation in response to allergen stimulation using peripheral blood collected from the patients prior to immunotherapy and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after beginning immunotherapy. Rhinitis symptoms were evaluated using the rhinitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) at 1-year intervals. Results Seventeen patients (10 with HDM sensitivity, 3 with mugwort sensitivity, and 4 with sensitivity to both HDM and mugwort) were enrolled in the study. Basophil reactivity to HDM did not change significantly during 24 months of immunotherapy. However, a significant reduction in basophil reactivity to mugwort was observed at 24-month follow-up. There was no significant association between the change in clinical symptoms by RQLQ and the change in basophil reactivity to either allergen. The change in allergen-specific basophil reactivity to HDM was well correlated with the change in nonspecific basophil activation induced by anti-FcεRI antibody, although basophil reactivity to anti-FcεRI antibody was not significantly reduced during immunotherapy. Conclusion Suppression of CD63 upregulation in the BAT was only observed with mugwort at 2-year follow-up. However, the basophil response did not reflect the clinical response to immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sae-Hoon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Soon-Hee Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Soo-Jie Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jung-Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Suh-Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul 05355, Korea
| | - Byung-Keun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Medical Center Anam Hospital, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Kyung-Whan Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Armed Forces Capital Hospital, Seongnam 13574, Korea
| | - Yoon-Seok Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Albuhairi S, Sare T, Lakin P, El Khoury K, Crestani E, Schneider LC, Anzaldi R, Patterson A, Rachid R. Systemic Reactions in Pediatric Patients Receiving Standardized Allergen Subcutaneous Immunotherapy with and without Seasonal Dose Adjustment. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2018; 6:1711-1716.e4. [PMID: 29339129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2017.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2003 Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters recommended standardizing allergen subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT). Data from longitudinal surveillance survey in North America reported a systemic reaction (SR) rate of 0.1% to 0.2% of injection visits. The rate of SR to standardized SCIT in pediatric patients has not been well evaluated. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the rate of SRs to standardized SCIT in pediatric patients aged 5 to 18 years in a single tertiary care center in the United States. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted in 2 groups: group 1 started SCIT within a period extending from January 2009 to June 2012, whereas group 2 started SCIT within a period extending from January 2013 to June 2016. The protocol was modified in group 2 such that updosing and maintenance doses were adjusted in the spring for tree and grass pollen and in the fall for weed pollen. RESULTS There were a total of 128 patients in group 1 and 118 patients in group 2. The rate of SR was 0.429% in group 1 and 0.364% in group 2, which was not significant. There was no difference in the severity of SR in the 2 groups with no-fatal or near-fatal SR noted. Asthma was a significant risk factor in the younger age subgroup aged 5 to 11 years. CONCLUSIONS Standardized SCIT appears to be associated with an SR rate of 0.429% to 0.364% of visits in pediatric patients. Protocol modification did not lead to a significant drop in SR. Larger multicenter studies are required to further evaluate the rate of SRs from standardized SCIT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sultan Albuhairi
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Tatyana Sare
- Department of Pharmacy, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Paul Lakin
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Clinical Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Kristel El Khoury
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Elena Crestani
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Lynda C Schneider
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Rocco Anzaldi
- Department of Pharmacy, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Al Patterson
- Department of Pharmacy, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Rima Rachid
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Long-term effects of allergen-specific subcutaneous immunotherapy for house dust mite induced allergic rhinitis. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2017; 131:997-1001. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022215117002110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
AbstractBackground:Allergic rhinitis is strongly associated with the presence of house dust mites. This study investigated the long-term effects of allergen-specific immunotherapy. Allergen-specific immunotherapy was applied over three years. The study was based on a 10-year follow up of patients with allergic rhinitis.Methods:The study was conducted between 2001 and 2015. Skin prick test results and symptom scores were evaluated before (26 patients) and after 3 years (20 patients) of allergen-specific immunotherapy (using data from a previously published study), and 10 years after allergen-specific immunotherapy had ended (20 of 26 patients).Results:The symptom scores before allergen-specific immunotherapy were significantly higher than those obtained after 3 years of allergen-specific immunotherapy and 10 years after allergen-specific immunotherapy (p < 0.0175). There were no significant differences between the scores obtained at 3 years and 10 years after allergen-specific immunotherapy (p > 0.0175).Conclusion:Subcutaneous immunotherapy is an effective treatment for house dust mite induced allergic rhinitis.
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang ZX, Shi H. Single-allergen sublingual immunotherapy versus multi-allergen subcutaneous immunotherapy for children with allergic rhinitis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 37:407-411. [PMID: 28585143 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-017-1748-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
It has always been controversial whether a single allergen performs better than multiple allergens in polysensitized patients during the allergen-specific immunotherapy. This study aimed to examine the clinical efficacy of single-allergen sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) versus multi-allergen subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and to discover the change of the biomarker IL-4 after 1-year immunotherapy in polysensitized children aged 6-13 years with allergic rhinitis (AR) induced by house dust mites (HDMs). The AR polysensitized children (n=78) were randomly divided into two groups: SLIT group and SCIT group. Patients in the SLIT group sublingually received a single HDM extract and those in the SCIT group were subcutaneously given multiple-allergen extracts (HDM in combination with other clinically relevant allergen extracts). Before and 1 year after the allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), the total nasal symptom scores (TNSS), total medication scores (TMS) and IL-4 levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were compared respectively between the two groups. The results showed that the TNSS were greatly improved, and the TMS and IL-4 levels were significantly decreased after 1-year ASIT in both groups (SLIT group: P<0.001; SCIT group: P<0.001). There were no significant differences in any outcome measures between the two groups (for TNSS: P>0.05; for TMS: P>0.05; for IL-4 levels: P>0.05). It was concluded that the clinical efficacy of single-allergen SLIT is comparable with that of multi-allergen SCIT in 6-13-year-old children with HDM-induced AR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Xi Wang
- Laboratory of Allergology, Institute of Immunology; Department of Allergy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Han Shi
- Department of Gerontology, Central Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, 380000, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Di Lorenzo G, Leto-Barone MS, La Piana S, Plaia A, Di Bona D. The effect of allergen immunotherapy in the onset of new sensitizations: a meta-analysis. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2017; 7:660-669. [PMID: 28544523 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the preventive efficacy of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) in the onset of new allergen sensitizations has been asserted by many reviews, position papers, and consensus conferences, the evidence available is from only 3 studies. The objective of this work was a systematic review to evaluate the preventive efficacy of AIT in the onset of new allergen sensitizations. The end-point was the risk difference (RD) in the onset of new allergen sensitizations between patients treated with AIT and pharmacotherapy. METHODS Computerized bibliographic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (until November 30th, 2016) were done. Random-effects and fixed-effects model meta-analyses were performed. Randomized controlled trials or observational studies comparing children treated with AIT with house dust mite (HDM) to subjects who did not receive AIT, with a long-term observation period (at least 3 years including treatment and follow-up) have been included. RESULTS Eight studies totaling 721 children (390 treated with AIT and 331 with pharmacotherapy) met the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was high. Low evidence supports the conclusion that AIT prevents the onset of new allergen sensitizations, with 3 of 8 studies reporting a reduction in the onset of new sensitizations in patients treated with AIT vs pharmacotherapy. Our meta-analysis found no difference between AIT and pharmacotherapy, with high heterogeneity (RD, -0.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.31 to 0.11; p = 0.32; I2 = 91.4%). CONCLUSION The data of this systematic review do not support a preventive effect in the onset of new allergen sensitizations, in children treated with AIT in comparison with those treated with pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Di Lorenzo
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Scuola di Medicina e Chirurgia, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Leto-Barone
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Scuola di Medicina e Chirurgia, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona La Piana
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S.), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Scuola di Medicina e Chirurgia, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Plaia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche Aziendali e Statistiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Dipartimento dell'Emergenza e dei Trapianti d'Organo (D.E.T.O.), Università di Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Di Bona D, Plaia A, Leto-Barone MS, La Piana S, Macchia L, Di Lorenzo G. Efficacy of allergen immunotherapy in reducing the likelihood of developing new allergen sensitizations: a systematic review. Allergy 2017; 72:691-704. [PMID: 27926981 DOI: 10.1111/all.13104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines and position papers indicate that allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease-modifying treatment, including prevention of the onset of new allergen sensitizations. However, this preventive effect was shown by only a few observational studies. Our aim was to systematically review the efficacy of AIT in preventing the onset of new allergen sensitizations. METHODS Computerized bibliographic searches of Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (through June 2015) were supplemented with manual searches of reference lists. Observational studies or randomized controlled trials with a long-term observation period were included. Paired reviewers extracted data about study characteristics and assessed biases. The end point was the risk difference in the onset of new allergen sensitizations between patients treated with AIT and pharmacotherapy. The strength of the evidence was graded based on the risk of bias, consistency, and magnitude of effect, according to the GRADE Working Group's guide. RESULTS Eighteen studies (1049 children, 10 057 adults) met the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was high in all but one study. Low evidence supports the position that AIT prevents the onset of new allergen sensitizations, with 10 of 18 studies reporting a reduction in the onset of new sensitizations in patients treated with AIT vs placebo. Small studies and studies with a shorter follow-up showed the highest benefit of AIT. CONCLUSIONS The overall evidence provides a low-grade level of the evidence supporting the efficacy of AIT in preventing the onset of new allergen sensitizations, but high-quality studies could change this estimate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D. Di Bona
- Scuola e Cattedra di Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica; Dipartimento dell'Emergenza e dei Trapianti d'Organo (D.E.T.O.); Università di Bari ‘Aldo Moro’; Bari Italy
| | - A. Plaia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche Aziendali e Statistiche; Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - M. S. Leto-Barone
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - S. La Piana
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - L. Macchia
- Scuola e Cattedra di Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica; Dipartimento dell'Emergenza e dei Trapianti d'Organo (D.E.T.O.); Università di Bari ‘Aldo Moro’; Bari Italy
| | - G. Di Lorenzo
- Dipartimento BioMedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica (Di.Bi.M.I.S); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Asthma, a Comprehensive Clinical Review. Dela J Public Health 2017; 3:10-22. [PMID: 34466893 PMCID: PMC8352467 DOI: 10.32481/djph.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
28
|
Safety of immunotherapy with glutaraldehyde modified allergen extracts in children and adults. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2017; 45:198-207. [PMID: 27939406 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutaraldehyde-modified natural allergen extracts show significant reduction in the IgE-binding capacity and proteolytic activity. This allows the administration of higher doses in a shorter period of time, and to mix different allergen extracts. OBJECTIVE Evaluate the safety of different concentrations and mixtures of glutaraldehyde-modified allergen extracts in a large group of paediatric and adult patients undergoing specific immunotherapy treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS 1855 patients (1156 adults and 699 children), suffering from rhinoconjunctivitis and/or asthma, participated in an observational multicentre cohort study, to evaluate the safety of immunotherapy using vaccines containing modified allergen extracts. Patients were monosensitised, or polysensitised, and received a therapeutic vaccine containing polymerised allergen extracts adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide. Safety was assessed by recording all side reactions related to immunotherapy. RESULTS The clinically relevant local reactions totalled 120, (90 immediate and 30 delayed) (1.02% of injections). Of them, 31 (0.26% of injections) occurred in children (26 immediate and 5 delayed) and 89 (0.76% of injections) in adults (64 immediate and 25 delayed). There were 38 systemic reactions. Eleven reactions were immediate (9 of grade 1 and 2 of grade 2) and 27 delayed (22 of grade 1 and 5 of grade 2). There were seven grade 2 systemic reactions (0.06% of the injections). No differences (P>0.05) in the number of reactions were observed between adults and children and between treatments were found in systemic reactions. All systemic reactions were mild and resolved spontaneously without the need of medication. CONCLUSION Specific immunotherapy using natural modified allergen vaccines is safe to treat allergic patients, even at higher doses and in mixtures of unrelated allergen extracts. The percentage of adverse reactions detected is lower than those reported in the literature with native unmodified allergen extracts.
Collapse
|
29
|
Tsabouri S, Mavroudi A, Feketea G, Guibas GV. Subcutaneous and Sublingual Immunotherapy in Allergic Asthma in Children. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:82. [PMID: 28484690 PMCID: PMC5399038 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This review presents up-to-date understanding of immunotherapy in the treatment of children with allergic asthma. The principal types of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) are subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). Both of them are indicated for patients with allergic rhinitis and/or asthma, who have evidence of clinically relevant allergen-specific IgE, and significant symptoms despite reasonable avoidance measures and/or maximal medical therapy. Studies have shown a significant decrease in asthma symptom scores and in the use of rescue medication, and a preventive effect on asthma onset. Although the safety profile of SLIT appears to be better than SCIT, the results of some studies and meta-analyses suggest that the efficacy of SCIT is better and that SCIT has an earlier onset than SLIT in children with allergic asthma. Severe, not controlled asthma, and medical error were the most frequent causes of SCIT-induced adverse events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Tsabouri
- Child Health Department, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Antigoni Mavroudi
- Allergy Unit of the 3rd Pediatric Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Gavriela Feketea
- General Hospital of Ilias, Amaliada Hospital Unit, Amaliada, Greece
| | - George V Guibas
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Allergy Department, University Hospitals South Manchester NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tortajada-Girbés M, Mesa Del Castillo M, Larramona H, Lucas JM, Álvaro M, Tabar AI, Jerez MJ, Martínez-Cañavate A. Evidence in immunotherapy for paediatric respiratory allergy: Advances and recommendations. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2016; 44 Suppl 1:1-32. [PMID: 27776895 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Allergic respiratory diseases are major health problems in paediatric population due their high level of prevalence and chronicity, and to their relevance in the costs and quality of life. One of the most important risk factors for the development of airway diseases in children and adolescents is atopy. The mainstays for the treatment of these diseases are avoiding allergens, controlling symptoms, and preventing them through sustained desensitization by allergen immunotherapy (AIT). AIT is a treatment option that consists in the administration of increasing amounts of allergens to modify the biological response to them, inducing long-term tolerance even after treatment has ended. This treatment approach has shown to decrease symptoms and improve quality of life, becoming cost effective for a large number of patients. In addition, it is considered the only treatment that can influence the natural course of the disease by targeting the cause of the allergic inflammatory response. The aim of this publication is to reflect the advances of AIT in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic respiratory diseases in children and adolescents reviewing articles published since 2000, establishing evidence categories to support the strength of the recommendations based on evidence. The first part of the article covers the prerequisite issues to understand how AIT is effective, such as the correct etiologic and clinical diagnosis of allergic respiratory diseases. Following this, the article outlines the advancements in understanding the mechanisms by which AIT achieve immune tolerance to allergens. Administration routes, treatment regimens, dose and duration, efficacy, safety, and factors associated with adherence are also reviewed. Finally, the article reviews future advances in the research of AIT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Tortajada-Girbés
- Paediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, Dr. Peset University Hospital, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - M Mesa Del Castillo
- Paediatric Allergology and Neumology Unit, Hospital El Escorial, Madrid, Spain
| | - H Larramona
- Paediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University Autonoma of Barcelona, and Corporacio Sanitaria Parc Tauli, Hospital of Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J M Lucas
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Unit, Virgen Arrixaca Clinic Universitary Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - M Álvaro
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Section, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A I Tabar
- Servicio de Alergología. Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), RETIC de Asma, Reacciones adversas y Alérgicas (ARADYAL), Pamplona, Spain
| | - M J Jerez
- Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg
| | - A Martínez-Cañavate
- Paediatric Allergology and Neumology Unit, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
[Allergen immunotherapy: Mechanisms of action, and therapeutic and socioeconomic impact Consensus of the Asociación Colombiana de Alergia, Asma e Imunología]. BIOMEDICA 2016; 36:463-474. [PMID: 27869395 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.v36i3.3183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2015] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Allergies comprise a set of highly prevalent diseases. When allergic processes are not controlled, they can endanger patients' health and lives, and have an important economic and social impact. The aim of this paper is to present a practical consensus of the scientific evidence on the use of immunotherapy in allergic diseases. A collaborative review made by various institutes and universities in Colombia was carried out upon request of the Asociación Colombiana de Alergia, Asma e Imunología, led by general practitioners, allergists, immunologists, internists and paediatricians with experience in the field of allergies. As a result, based on current national and international scientific evidence, we describe in detail what immunotherapy is about, its indications, contraindications and its economic and health benefits. Conclusions show immunotherapy as a clinically effective and safe treatment, which can substantially reduce the cost of the overall treatment of allergic patients.
Collapse
|
32
|
Yukselen A. Allergen-specific immunotherapy in pediatric allergic asthma. Asia Pac Allergy 2016; 6:139-48. [PMID: 27489785 PMCID: PMC4967613 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2016.6.3.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only curative way that can change the immunologic response to allergens and thus can modify the natural progression of allergic diseases. There are some important criteria which contributes significantly on efficacy of AIT, such as the allergen extract used for treatment, the dose and protocol, patient selection in addition to the severity and control of asthma. The initiation of AIT in allergic asthma should be considered in intermittent, mild and moderate cases which coexisting with other allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, and in case of unacceptable adverse effects of medications. Two important impact of AIT; steroid sparing effect and preventing from progression to asthma should be taken into account in pediatric asthma when making a decision on starting of AIT. Uncontrolled asthma remains a significant risk factor for adverse events and asthma should be controlled both before and during administration of AIT. The evidence concerning the efficacy of subcutaneous (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for treatment of pediatric asthma suggested that SCIT decreases asthma symptoms and medication scores, whereas SLIT can ameliorate asthma symptoms. Although the effectiveness of SCIT has been shown for both seasonal and perennial allergens, the data for SLIT is less convincing for perennial allergies in pediatric asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayfer Yukselen
- Division of Pediatric Allergy & Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Baskent University Istanbul Hospital, Istanbul 34662, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Madsen F, Sidenius K, Enevoldsen H, Frølund L, Guul SJ, Søes-Petersen U. Safety of allergen immunotherapy: A 10-year prospective study. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 138:1494-1495. [PMID: 27577877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lars Frølund
- Allergy and Lung Clinic Helsingør, Sct. Olai Gade, Denmark
| | | | - Ulrik Søes-Petersen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Roskilde University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Epstein TG, Liss GM, Murphy-Berendts K, Bernstein DI. Risk factors for fatal and nonfatal reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 116:354-359.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
35
|
Grier TJ, Converse LM, Rekkerth DJ, Renahan KE. Math-free guides for glycerin and allergens at variable subcutaneous injection volumes: How's my dosing? Update. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 116:455-60. [PMID: 27017565 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current summaries of effective maintenance dose ranges for subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) are based on administration of 0.5-mL volumes. Extract formulations delivering equivalent dose ranges for practices using different injection volumes have not been reported, and calculation of the final glycerin concentrations in these solutions remains an inconvenient and repetitive process. OBJECTIVE To create math-free guides for allergen doses and glycerin concentrations that identify the extract concentrate volumes required to deliver doses within the ranges cited in the 2011 immunotherapy practice parameters for clinicians using 5.0-mL maintenance vials and injection volumes ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mL. METHODS Algebraic calculations were performed to determine the specific combinations of extract concentrate strengths, volumes of these products in patient vaccines, and injection volumes needed for administration of target allergen doses spanning the current SCIT practice parameter recommendations. RESULTS For each product or group (nonstandardized extracts), tables were constructed to define the allergen doses provided by various combinations of extract concentrate volumes and injection volumes. The values within the effective dose ranges for each product were highlighted to facilitate comparisons of specific conditions relevant to allergy specialists. Glycerin tables were also created to permit convenient assessments of the final concentrations of this stabilizer in patient prescriptions. CONCLUSION SCIT dosing and glycerin tables are useful tools to assist allergists with practice decisions that involve variable patient formulas and injection volumes and can help identify suitable conditions for treatment of patients presenting with diverse allergen sensitivities and specificity profiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Grier
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Stallergenes Greer, Lenoir, North Carolina.
| | - Lorie M Converse
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Stallergenes Greer, Lenoir, North Carolina
| | - Donna J Rekkerth
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Stallergenes Greer, Lenoir, North Carolina
| | - Kevin E Renahan
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Stallergenes Greer, Lenoir, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lieberman P, Nicklas RA, Randolph C, Oppenheimer J, Bernstein D, Bernstein J, Ellis A, Golden DBK, Greenberger P, Kemp S, Khan D, Ledford D, Lieberman J, Metcalfe D, Nowak-Wegrzyn A, Sicherer S, Wallace D, Blessing-Moore J, Lang D, Portnoy JM, Schuller D, Spector S, Tilles SA. Anaphylaxis--a practice parameter update 2015. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 115:341-84. [PMID: 26505932 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2015.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
37
|
Carr W, Schaeffer J, Donnenfeld E. Treating allergic conjunctivitis: A once-daily medication that provides 24-hour symptom relief. ALLERGY & RHINOLOGY (PROVIDENCE, R.I.) 2016; 7:107-14. [PMID: 27466061 PMCID: PMC5010431 DOI: 10.2500/ar.2016.7.0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is a common ocular inflammatory manifestation of allergen exposure in sensitized individuals. Signs and symptoms of AC can decrease quality of life, interfere with productivity, and lead to considerable economic burden. Consistent suppression of conjunctival inflammation is necessary for managing AC, but currently available medications require frequent administration and exhibit limited duration of action. METHODS In this review, we summarized AC pathogenesis, diagnosis, and current treatment options as well as their limitations. Findings from the literature were discussed in the context of the unmet need for a once-daily medication with sustained 24-hour effectiveness. RESULTS Topical pharmacologic treatments are the most common approach for managing extant AC; however, most available medications require multiple daily instillations. Dual-acting antihistamine-mast cell stabilizing agents are currently considered first-line therapeutics for AC because they provide acute relief of signs and symptoms and block persistent inflammation to promote regression of AC. Recent studies of a newly-developed, higher-concentration formulation of a dual-acting antihistamine-mast cell stabilizer have demonstrated that this formulation provides a 24-hour duration of action with once-daily dosing. CONCLUSIONS Dual-acting AC medications exhibit a high degree of overall effectiveness and are well tolerated for chronic use. A newly available once-daily medication that manages signs and symptoms of AC for a full 24 hours may be considered a treatment of choice for patients experiencing seasonal or perennial AC. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01743027 and NCT01479374.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Warner Carr
- From the Southern California Research, Mission Viejo, California
| | | | - Eric Donnenfeld
- Department of Ophthalmology, New York University, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Darsow U, Ring J. Prinzip der temporären Toleranzinduktion. ALLERGOLOGIE 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-37203-2_55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
39
|
Al-Moamary MS, Alhaider SA, Idrees MM, Al Ghobain MO, Zeitouni MO, Al-Harbi AS, Yousef AA, Al-Matar H, Alorainy HS, Al-Hajjaj MS. The Saudi Initiative for Asthma - 2016 update: Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma in adults and children. Ann Thorac Med 2016; 11:3-42. [PMID: 26933455 PMCID: PMC4748613 DOI: 10.4103/1817-1737.173196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This is an updated guideline for the diagnosis and management of asthma, developed by the Saudi Initiative for Asthma (SINA) group, a subsidiary of the Saudi Thoracic Society. The main objective of SINA is to have guidelines that are up to date, simple to understand and easy to use by nonasthma specialists, including primary care and general practice physicians. SINA approach is mainly based on symptom control and assessment of risk as it is the ultimate goal of treatment. The new SINA guidelines include updates of acute and chronic asthma management, with more emphasis on the use of asthma control in the management of asthma in adults and children, inclusion of a new medication appendix, and keeping consistency on the management at different age groups. The section on asthma in children is rewritten and expanded where the approach is stratified based on the age. The guidelines are constructed based on the available evidence, local literature, and the current situation in Saudi Arabia. There is also an emphasis on patient-doctor partnership in the management that also includes a self-management plan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed S. Al-Moamary
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami A. Alhaider
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majdy M. Idrees
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Division, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed O. Al Ghobain
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed O. Zeitouni
- Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel S. Al-Harbi
- Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A. Yousef
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussain Al-Matar
- Department of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan S. Alorainy
- Department of Respiratory Care, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed S. Al-Hajjaj
- Department of Medicine, Respiratory Division, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Grier TJ, Hall DM, Duncan EA, Gada SM. Allergen stabilities and compatibilities in immunotherapy mixtures that contain cat, dog, dust mite, and cockroach extracts. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2015; 115:496-502. [PMID: 26522255 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indoor allergen mixtures that contain cat, dog, dust mite, and cockroach extracts are commonly used in allergy clinics for subcutaneous immunotherapy, but product-specific stabilities and mixing compatibilities in these complex patient formulas have not been determined. OBJECTIVES To assess the recoveries of cat, dog epithelia, dog dander, dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae, and cockroach mix allergen activities in 5 component mixtures and 1:10 (vol/vol) dilutions stored for up to 12 months. METHODS Concentrated stock mixtures, 10-fold dilutions of these mixtures in human serum albumin-saline diluent, and analogous single-extract controls were analyzed for major allergen concentrations (cat Fel d 1, dog dander Can f 1) and multiallergen IgE-binding potencies (dog epithelia, D farinae, cockroach mix) after storage for 3, 6, 9, and 12 months at 2°C to 8°C. RESULTS The selected immunoassays were specific for individual target extracts in the 5-component mixtures and exhibited analytical sensitivities sufficient for evaluation of both the concentrated and diluted indoor allergen formulas. All control samples except diluted cockroach extract had near-complete stabilities during refrigerated storage. Mixtures that contained cat, dog epithelia, dog dander, and D farinae extracts exhibited favorable mixing compatibilities in 1:1 (vol/vol) concentrates (47.5% glycerin) and 1:10 (vol/vol) dilutions (4.75% glycerin), relative to corresponding control sample reactivities. Cockroach allergens in both 1:1 (vol/vol) and 1:10 (vol/vol) concentrations were stabilized significantly by mixing with the other 4 indoor allergen extracts. CONCLUSION Extracts in mixtures that contained 5 common sources of indoor allergens possess favorable stabilities and mixing compatibilities and support the practice of combining these products in the same patient treatment formulations for subcutaneous immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Grier
- Research and Development Laboratory, Greer Laboratories Inc, Lenoir, North Carolina.
| | - Dawn M Hall
- Research and Development Laboratory, Greer Laboratories Inc, Lenoir, North Carolina
| | - Elizabeth A Duncan
- Research and Development Laboratory, Greer Laboratories Inc, Lenoir, North Carolina
| | - Satyen M Gada
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Schaffer FM, Garner LM, Ebeling M, Adelglass JM, Hulsey TC, Naples AR. The efficacy assessment of a self-administered immunotherapy protocol. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2015; 6:148-55. [PMID: 26467843 PMCID: PMC4860610 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background We previously reported the safety of a self‐administered subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) protocol. Here we report the results of the retrospective efficacy trial of the United Allergy Service (UAS) self‐administered SCIT protocol. We hypothesized that by utilizing a slow SCIT buildup phase, designed to attain recommended allergen concentrations on a cumulative basis, efficacious outcomes and clinical relevance would be achieved. Methods We enrolled 60 SCIT patients and 56 control patients. The study contrasted baseline and treatment period combined symptom plus medication scores (CSMS) as the primary outcome measure and rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) scores as the secondary study outcome measure. Changes in pollen counts were also examined with regard to effects on these efficacy parameters. Results The treatment group showed significantly improved CSMS (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −1.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.97 to −1.18; p < 0.001) and RQLQ (SMD: −0.91; 95% CI, −1.23 to −0.59; p < 0.001). These treatment group outcome measures were respectively improved by 33% and 29% compared to baseline and greater than 40% in comparison to the control group (p < 0.0001). Significant results were also shown when examining these outcome measures with regards to either monotherapy or poly‐allergen SCIT. Furthermore, a comparison to recent meta‐analyses of SCIT studies showed equivalent efficacy and clinical relevance. Assessment of pollen counts during the baseline and treatment periods further corroborated the efficacy of the UAS SCIT protocol. Conclusion These efficacy results, and our previous safety results, show that a carefully designed and implemented self‐administered SCIT protocol is efficacious and safe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick M Schaffer
- United Allergy Services (UAS), San Antonio, TX.,Division of Pediatric Pulmonary, Allergy and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Myla Ebeling
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Thomas C Hulsey
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Pahwa P, Abonyi S, Karunanayake C, Rennie DC, Janzen B, Kirychuk S, Lawson JA, Katapally T, McMullin K, Seeseequasis J, Naytowhow A, Hagel L, Dyck RF, Fenton M, Senthilselvan A, Ramsden V, King M, Koehncke N, Marchildon G, McBain L, Smith-Windsor T, Smylie J, Episkenew JA, Dosman JA. A community-based participatory research methodology to address, redress, and reassess disparities in respiratory health among First Nations. BMC Res Notes 2015; 8:199. [PMID: 25981585 PMCID: PMC4440281 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-015-1137-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To date, determinants of respiratory health in First Nations people living on reserves and means of addressing and redressing those determinants have not been well established. Hence the Saskatchewan First Nations Lung Health Project (FNLHP) is a new prospective cohort study of aboriginal people being conducted in two First Nations reserves to evaluate potential health determinants associated with respiratory outcomes. Using the population health framework (PHF) of Health Canada, instruments designed with the communities, joint ownership of data, and based on the 4-phase concept of the First Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey, the project aims to evaluate individual factors, contextual factors, and principal covariates on respiratory outcomes. The objective of this report is to clearly describe the methodology of (i) the baseline survey that consists of two components, an interviewer-administered questionnaire and clinical assessment; and (ii) potential intervention programs; and present descriptive results of the baseline data of longitudinal FNLHP. Methods The study is being conducted over 5 years (2012–2017) in two phases, baseline and longitudinal. Baseline survey has been completed and consisted of (i) an interviewer-administered questionnaire-based evaluation of individual and contextual factors of importance to respiratory health (with special focus on chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and obstructive sleep apnea), and (ii) clinical lung function and allergy tests with the consent of study participants. The address-redress phase consists of potential intervention programs and is currently being rolled out to address-at community level (via green light program and environmental study), and redress-at policy level (via obesity reduction and improved diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea) the issues that have been identified by the baseline data. Results Interviewer-administered surveys were conducted in 2012–2013 and collected data on 874 individuals living in 406 households from two reserve communities located in Saskatchewan, Canada. Four hundred and forty six (51%) females and 428 (49%) males participated in the FNLHP. Conclusions The information from this project will assist in addressing and redressing many of the issues involved including the provision of adequate housing, health lifestyle practices, and in planning for health service delivery. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13104-015-1137-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Punam Pahwa
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada. .,Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Health Science Building, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Sylvia Abonyi
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Health Science Building, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Chandima Karunanayake
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Donna C Rennie
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Bonnie Janzen
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Health Science Building, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Shelley Kirychuk
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Joshua A Lawson
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Tarun Katapally
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada. .,Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Health Science Building, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Kathleen McMullin
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | | | | | - Louise Hagel
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Roland F Dyck
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
| | - Mark Fenton
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
| | | | - Vivian Ramsden
- Department of Academic Family Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
| | - Malcolm King
- Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Colombia, Canada.
| | - Niels Koehncke
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| | - Greg Marchildon
- Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy, University of Regina, Saskatchewan, Regina, Canada.
| | - Lesley McBain
- First Nations University of Canada, Saskatchewan, Regina, Canada.
| | | | | | - Jo-Ann Episkenew
- Indigenous Peoples' Health Research Centre, University of Regina, Saskatchewan, Regina, Canada.
| | - James A Dosman
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104, Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zidarn M, Košnik M, Šilar M, Bajrović N, Korošec P. Sustained effect of grass pollen subcutaneous immunotherapy on suppression of allergen-specific basophil response; a real-life, nonrandomized controlled study. Allergy 2015; 70:547-55. [PMID: 25627309 DOI: 10.1111/all.12581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An important advantage of allergen immunotherapy as compared to pharmacotherapy for allergic rhinitis is the long-term effect that persists after completing immunotherapy. The mechanism of the sustained effect of allergen immunotherapy is not completely understood. METHODS We conducted a 7-year study of monitoring allergen-specific basophil response and serological markers in 20 subjects with moderate-to-severe grass pollen-allergic rhinitis just before beginning and after up-dosing of subcutaneous grass pollen immunotherapy, before the first pollen season, and 1-2 years after completion of 3-5 years of treatment. Comparable untreated rhinitis subjects were followed at the same time points. Clinical outcomes included assessment of symptoms, use of rescue medication, and quality of life. The basophil response was also monitored after removal of IgG antibodies. RESULTS Basophil response assessed as area under the curve (AUC) halved during initiation of SCIT and was 55% lower 1-2 years after completing SCIT. In the untreated group, the basophil response remained comparable. Although immunotherapy-induced grass pollen-specific IgG4 levels decreased to near pre-immunotherapy levels after completing SCIT, the removal of IgG antibodies resulted in an increase in basophil response almost to the pre-immunotherapy levels. In untreated subjects, removal of IgG did not have any effect on basophil response. CONCLUSIONS Grass pollen immunotherapy induces sustained suppression of the allergen-specific basophil response that persists after completion of treatment and could account for long-term clinical tolerance. It also seems to be associated with persistent blocking activity of IgG antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Zidarn
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases; Golnik Slovenia
| | - M. Košnik
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases; Golnik Slovenia
| | - M. Šilar
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases; Golnik Slovenia
| | - N. Bajrović
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases; Golnik Slovenia
| | - P. Korošec
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases; Golnik Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Karam M, Samuels K, Holland C, Hernandez C, Greenhawt M. Adherence with allergen immunotherapy labeling guidelines. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2015; 3:250-5. [PMID: 25609334 PMCID: PMC10636704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the adherence rate to allergen immunotherapy (AIT) labeling guidelines. OBJECTIVE To assess adherence to labeling guidelines of AIT Practice Parameter 2011 at University of Michigan Health Service. METHODS AIT vials of 320 patients who received their care at the University of Michigan Health Service were reviewed. Data collected looked at patient identifiers (PI), concentrations in volume/volume (v/v) format, color coding, allergen content, expiration date and instructions about AIT dosing, and systemic reaction treatment. Data were analyzed by using χ(2) test and the Fisher exact test and logistic regression. RESULTS Of 238 non-university formulated labels, 65% had 2 PIs, 62% had a v/v concentration, 41% had color coding, 71% had the content listed, and 100% had a recorded expiration date. Only 21% had all 5 recommended components. All 82 University vials had 5 components. Labels with 2 PIs were more likely to have a v/v concentration with its corresponding color coding (odds ratio [OR] 3.84 [95% CI, 1.9-7.7]; P < .001). Labels that specified the extract's content were more likely to be color coded or to have a v/v concentration listed (OR 6.3 [95% CI, 3.4-11.8]; P < .001). For all AIT vials, complete labels were significantly more likely to have a clear buildup schedule (OR 9.6 [95% CI, 4.2-23.2]; P < .001), dosing adjustment after a missed dose (OR 8.2 [95% CI, 3.4-19.8]; P < .001) or after a reaction (OR 13.7 [95% CI, 7.8-2.1]; P < .001), and clear systemic reaction treatment instructions (OR 9.7 [95% CI, 7.8-24.1]; P < .001). CONCLUSION Fewer than 25% of the nonuniversity prescribers adhered to AIT practice parameters 5 years after publication. Recording 2 PIs, the v/v concentration, or the color coding increased the likelihood of having a complete label. Complete label contents were associated with clear instructions about AIT dosing and reaction treatment and/or dose adjustments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn Karam
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Mich
| | - Kiela Samuels
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Mich; University of Michigan School of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, Mich
| | - Christine Holland
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Mich
| | | | - Matthew Greenhawt
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Mich; Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Mich.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Schaffer FM, Naples AR, Ebeling M, Hulsey TC, Garner LM. The safety of self-administered allergen immunotherapy during the buildup and maintenance phases. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2015; 5:149-56. [PMID: 25476041 PMCID: PMC4465093 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-administered allergen immunotherapy is considered controversial. We believe the implementation of a self-administration protocol characterized by patient preselection and a slow buildup phase is safe. METHODS We analyzed 23,614 patient records and associated immunotherapy injections for systemic reactions (SR) during a 1-year period (2011 to 2012). SRs were graded in accordance with the World Allergy Organization (WAO) criteria. RESULTS Thirty-seven SRs were reported for 23,614 patients who self-administered 2,021,600 injections yielding an annual SR rate of 0.16% (per patient) or 0.002% (per injection). Only 9 of 4643 pediatric (0.19%) and 28 of 18,971 adult patients (0.15%) experienced 1 or more SRs. No deaths (grade V SR) occurred. From 2009 through early 2014, over 90,000 patients received more than 10 million injections in accordance with the United Allergy Services (UAS) protocol without fatalities. CONCLUSION We believe this safety profile is due to a preselection of patients to exclude those with a high risk for adverse reactions and a slow immunotherapy buildup phase. In contrast, previous studies documented office-based SRs ranging from approximately 3% to greater than 14%. Thus, the UAS home-immunotherapy SR rate is significantly lower than office-based immunotherapy SR rates (p < 0.0001). The enhanced safety of this protocol results in a decreased frequency and severity of SRs. This safety report, derived from analyses of one of the largest patient cohorts studied, corroborates and expands the observations of previous studies of self-administered subcutaneous immunotherapy in a low-risk patient population by assessing self-administered allergen immunotherapy during the buildup and maintenance phases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick M. Schaffer
- United Allergy Services (UAS), San Antonio, TX
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary, Allergy and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Myla Ebeling
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Thomas C. Hulsey
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Mixing compatibilities of Aspergillus and American cockroach allergens with other high-protease fungal and insect extracts. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2015; 114:233-9. [PMID: 25578248 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2014] [Revised: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that Alternaria and German cockroach allergens can be degraded by endogenous proteases from other insect and fungal extracts when combined for immunotherapy, but data supporting the compatibilities of other high-protease products in comparable mixtures have not been reported. OBJECTIVE To assess the stabilities and compatibilities of Aspergillus fumigatus and American cockroach allergens after mixing with protease-rich extracts from other insects or fungi at concentrations similar to those recommended for subcutaneous immunotherapy. METHODS Mixtures containing A fumigatus, American cockroach, and other fungal or insect extracts were evaluated by quantitative (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) and qualitative (immunoblotting) methods. Test mixtures and control samples at 10% to 50% glycerin concentrations were analyzed after storage for up to 12 months at 2°C to 8°C. RESULTS Moderate to high recoveries of Aspergillus extract activities were retained in control samples and extract mixtures under all conditions examined. American cockroach extract controls were partly degraded at 10% to 25% glycerin, and cockroach allergen compatibilities were decreased significantly in mixtures with several fungal extracts at 25% glycerin. Mixing with other insects did not compromise the stability of American cockroach allergens at 25% to 50% glycerin. CONCLUSION Aspergillus extracts exhibited favorable stabilities after mixing with other high-protease products. American cockroach extract potencies were unstable in less than 50% glycerin, even in the absence of other protease-containing allergens, and were destabilized in mixtures with several fungal extracts. Addition of fungal and insect extracts to separate treatment vials or preparation of fungal-insect mixtures at elevated glycerin concentrations might be necessary to produce compatible patient formulations for allergen immunotherapy injections.
Collapse
|
47
|
Santos N, Pereira AM, Silva R, Torres da Costa J, Plácido JL. Characterisation of systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy with airborne allergens and classification according to WAO 2010. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2015; 43:25-31. [PMID: 24661594 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2013.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic reactions (SR) to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) are rare but potentially severe. The use of different definitions and classifications hampered comparability between studies. AIMS To determine the frequency of SR to SCIT with airborne allergens, and to characterise and classify them according to the WAO 2010 recommendations. METHODS Cross-sectional, retrospective study. Data on patients, immunotherapy and SR to SCIT were collected from the SCIT record forms. During the study period, 22,332 SCIT injections were administered (3732 patients). RESULTS A total of 26 SR (0.1% of administrations) were recorded in 16 (0.6%) patients (median age 22 years, nine males, all with rhinitis and nine with asthma). Twenty-one (81%) SR occurred during the induction phase; eight (31%) in the first hour after administration. According to the WAO 2010 classification, 12 (46%) were grade 1 and 14 (54%) were grade 2. Most grade 2 reactions occurred in asthmatics, presented as mild asthma symptoms and resolved without need for medical observation. Only two individuals without asthma presented grade 2 reactions, both with concurrent cutaneous and low respiratory symptoms; both required medical observation and treatment despite late onset; 82% (n=12) of grade 2 reactions were late. No grade 3-5 reactions were registered and only one patient needed adrenaline treatment. No risk factors for SR to SCIT were identified in this study. CONCLUSIONS SCIT is a safe treatment when administered by trained staff. The WAO 2010 classification might be useful for retrospectively classifying the severity of reactions, although its usefulness in treatment decision needs further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Santos
- Centro Hospitalar São João, E.P.E., Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Porto, Portugal.
| | - A M Pereira
- Centro Hospitalar São João, E.P.E., Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - R Silva
- Centro Hospitalar São João, E.P.E., Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - J Torres da Costa
- Centro Hospitalar São João, E.P.E., Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - J L Plácido
- Centro Hospitalar São João, E.P.E., Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Park KH, Son M, Choi SY, Park HJ, Lee JH, Jeong KY, Lee JS, Park JW. In vitro evaluation of allergen potencies of commercial house dust mite sublingual immunotherapy reagents. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2014; 7:124-9. [PMID: 25729619 PMCID: PMC4341333 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2015.7.2.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The clinical efficacy of allergen-immunotherapy is known to be dose dependent. However, optimal maintenance dosage has not yet been determined for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). Furthermore, since companies adopt their own units for expression of allergenicity, the allergen concentrations of individual reagents cannot be compared easily. We sought to measure and compare the allergenicities of 3 commercially available house dust mite (HDM) SLIT regents and a subcutaneous immunotherapy reagent. Methods We measured the HDM allergenic potency of the maintenance dosages of three SLIT reagents: Staloral® (300 index of reactivity [IR] /mL, recommended maintenance dosage [MD]: 120 IR), SLITone® (1,000 standard therapeutic unit [STU]/mL, recommended MD: 200 STU), Wolwopharma® (100 µg/mL, recommended MD: 20 µg), and subcutaneous immunotherapy regents of Hollister-Stier (10,000 allergy unit [AU] /mL). The allergenic potency was assessed by measuring the total protein concentrations, mite group 1 and 2 allergens using 2-site ELISA, and an inhibition test against IgE specific to Dermatophagoides farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Results The protein content of the Wolwopharma® reagent was 1.5-261.4 times higher than that of the other 2 SLIT reagents. The concentration of group 1 major allergens in Staloral® (132.03 µg/mL) was 33- to 44.5-fold higher than in SLITone® (4.00 µg/mL) and Wolwopharma® (2.97 µg/mL). The concentration of group 2 major allergen was also 8.9- to 10.5-fold higher in Staloral® (15.7 µg/mL) than in SLITone® (1.8 µg/mL) or Wolwopharma® (1.5 µg/mL). An ELISA inhibition study against HDM-specific IgE showed that the allergen potency of Staloral® reagent is 8.5-fold and 21-fold higher than that of SLITone® or Wolwopharma®, respectively. The differences between the maintenance dosages are further exaggerated by the differences in the recommended volumes of SLIT reagents. Conclusions The allergen potencies of commercially available HDM SLIT reagents are markedly different. Consensus regarding the optimal allergen concentration for SLIT reagents used to treat HDM respiratory allergies is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Hee Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mina Son
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo-Young Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hey Jung Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Hyun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung Yong Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo-Shil Lee
- Center for Immunology and Pathology, Korea National Institute of Health, Osong, Korea
| | - Jung-Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute of Allergy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Yukselen A, Kendirli SG. Role of immunotherapy in the treatment of allergic asthma. World J Clin Cases 2014; 2:859-865. [PMID: 25516861 PMCID: PMC4266834 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v2.i12.859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) induces clinical and immunological tolerance as defined by persistence of clinical benefit and associated long-term immunological parameters after cessation of treatment. Although the efficacy of SIT has been shown in terms of reducing symptoms, medication consumption and ameliorating quality of life in both allergic rhinitis and asthma, there has long been some controversies about effectiveness of SIT in the treatment of allergic asthma. The type of allergen, the dose and protocol of immunotherapy, patient selection criteria, the severity and control of asthma, all are significant contributors to the power of efficacy in allergic asthma. The initiation of SIT in allergic asthma should be considered in case of coexisting of other allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, unacceptable adverse effects of medications, patient’s preference to avoid long-term pharmacotherapy. Steroid sparing effect of SIT in allergic asthma is also an important benefit particularly in patients who have to use these drugs in high doses for a long-time. Symptomatic asthma is a risk factor for systemic reactions and asthma should be controlled at the time of administration of SIT. Both subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) have been found to be effective in patients with allergic asthma. Although the safety profile of SLIT seems to be better than SCIT, the results of some studies and meta-analyses suggest that the efficacy of SCIT may appear better and earlier than SLIT in children with allergic asthma.
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
The primary care physician is the first line of treatment for allergic rhinitis, which affects approximately one-fourth of children in the United States. There is an increasing trend toward self-management by patients or parents due to high-deductible insurance plans and the over-the-counter availability of allergy medications. The primary care physician can offer guidance on appropriate selection of medications and potential adverse effects. Vitamin D deficiency has been proposed as a potential contributing factor in patients with allergic diseases, and studies are underway to determine whether supplementation with vitamin D is helpful for these conditions. Sublingual immunotherapy has recently received US Food and Drug Administration approval for grass and ragweed allergens; many children will be interested in this alternative to allergy shots. The relative advantages and disadvantages of sublingual vs subcutaneous immunotherapy are discussed.
Collapse
|