Allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only etiologic treatment for allergic diseases that can modify the course and progression of the disease.
It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, allergic asthma and anaphylactic hypersensitivity to mite toxins.
It is performed using a standardized allergen extract, most often by subcutaneous application (application under the skin), but also as sublingual immunotherapy.
The indication, route of application, and monitoring of allergen-specific immunotherapy is set by a internal medicine specialist, subspecialist in allergology and clinical immunology.
While subcutaneous allergen-specific immunotherapy carries the risk of anaphylaxis, it should be performed in specialized facilities that are equipped and have additionally trained staff.
Decisions on introduction and continuation of allergen-specific immunotherapy should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specifics of each patient (personalized approach), such as allergen avoidance options, efficacy of pharmacological treatment, quantities and types of drugs needed to control disease, side effects of pharmacological treatment and patient motivation.
