Re-interpretation: Immunity-boosting strategy for allergies and hay fever: hyposensitization breaks through
Desensitization therapy, also known as allergy immunotherapy, is a treatment option for individuals with hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and other types of allergies. This therapy is typically performed by allergologists or doctors with experience in this treatment form.
The therapy involves exposing the body to repeated, high doses of allergens to accustom the immune system to the allergenic substance. There are two forms of desensitization therapy: subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). In SCIT, the allergen dose is injected under the skin, while in SLIT, the allergen dose is administered under the tongue.
Before undergoing desensitization, patients should inform their doctor about current medications, chronic illnesses, travel plans, sporting events, upcoming vaccinations, pregnancy plans, and discomfort in the oral cavity. It is crucial to note that desensitization should not be performed on individuals with severe asthma, tumor diseases, heart and circulatory weaknesses, kidney problems, a weakened immune system, pregnant women, or those with a history of anaphylactic shock.
Long-term effects of desensitization therapy for Type I allergies, especially hay fever, generally include sustained reduction of symptoms, improved quality of life, and possible induction of long-term tolerance or remission in some patients.
Clinical Improvement and Symptom Reduction
Desensitization via allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) can reduce hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and eye irritation. Studies report meaningful clinical improvements in symptom scores and quality of life during and after therapy [1].
Immunological Changes
Over the course of treatment, there is a significant increase in specific immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) antibodies, which are believed to block allergen-IgE binding and help reduce allergic responses. This immunological change is a key marker of successful desensitization [1].
Duration of Benefits
Benefits can persist for years after completing therapy, with some patients achieving long-lasting tolerance where symptoms remain controlled even without ongoing treatment. However, complete remission varies among individuals [3].
Safety and Adherence
Desensitization therapies like SLIT and subcutaneous immunotherapy have good safety profiles with mostly mild adverse effects. Adherence rates are relatively high but vary by delivery method and patient factors [1].
Limitations in Evidence
While short-to-medium-term benefits are well-documented, robust large-scale long-term studies (beyond several years) remain limited for some forms like oral mucosal immunotherapy. Researchers continue to evaluate how long-lasting the tolerance is and in which patients [1][3].
Side effects of desensitization therapy may include itching, swellings, redness, and fatigue, with possible locations being the injection site or mouth for sublingual treatment.
It is essential to note that the article does not contain any new information about the effectiveness, types, or duration of desensitization therapy, or the age range of individuals who can undergo the treatment. The costs for desensitization treatment vary and are typically covered by health insurance companies.
In summary, desensitization therapy for hay fever-type allergies can provide significant long-term symptom relief and improve quality of life, sometimes inducing partial or full long-term tolerance, primarily through immunologic changes like increased IgG4. The therapy is generally safe, though individual outcomes vary, and ongoing research aims to better define long-term durability of these benefits [1][3].
[1] Casale, T. B., et al. (2018). Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 141(6), 1580-1600.e12. [3] Bousquet, J., et al. (2018). Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma: A Position Paper from the World Allergy Organization. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 141(6), 1601-1618.e4.
- Desensitization therapy is a treatment option for various allergies, including hay fever.
- Allergists or doctors experienced in this treatment form usually perform the therapy.
- Desensitization involves exposing the body to high doses of allergens to accustom the immune system.
- There are two forms: subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).
- In SCIT, the allergen dose is injected under the skin, while in SLIT, it is administered under the tongue.
- Patients should inform their doctor about current medications, medical conditions, travel plans, sports, upcoming vaccinations, pregnancy plans, and oral discomfort.
- Desensitization should not be performed on individuals with severe asthma, tumor diseases, heart and circulatory weaknesses, kidney problems, a weakened immune system, pregnant women, or those with a history of anaphylactic shock.
- Long-term effects include reduced symptoms, improved quality of life, and possible long-term tolerance or remission in some patients.
- Desensitization can decrease symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and eye irritation in hay fever patients.
- There is an increase in specific immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) antibodies over the course of treatment.
- Benefits can persist for years after completing therapy, with some patients achieving long-lasting tolerance.
- Variability exists in the duration of benefits among individuals.
- Desensitization therapies have good safety profiles with mostly mild adverse effects.
- Adherence rates vary by delivery method and patient factors.
- Robust large-scale long-term studies are limited for some forms like oral mucosal immunotherapy.
- Side effects may include itching, swellings, redness, fatigue, and potential locations are injection sites or the mouth for sublingual treatment.
- The article does not provide new information about the effectiveness, types, or duration of desensitization therapy, or the age range of individuals who can undergo the treatment.
- The costs for desensitization treatment vary and are typically covered by health insurance companies.
- Achieving long-term symptom relief and improved quality of life is the primary goal of desensitization therapy.
- Further research is necessary to better define the long-term durability of desensitization benefits.
- Climate change and its impact on air quality may contribute to an increased incidence of allergies.
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