Findings in allergies immunotherapy reported from Barzilai Medical Center

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February 9th, 2009

   2009 FEB 9 -- Fresh data on allergies are presented in the report 'Safety and efficacy of allergen immunotherapy in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and asthma in real life.' According to recent research from Israel, "Subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy is effective in treating allergic airway disease. Disadvantages include immediate local and systemic adverse reactions and poor compliance."

   "To obtain real-life efficacy and safety data through a prospective observational study of SIT in the allergist's office. We prospectively collected data from all patients with a diagnosis of allergic rhinitis and/or asthma and a specific immunoglobulin E-mediated sensitization to one or more aeroallergens who began SIT during the 2 year period 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2006. As part of the routine immunotherapy care patients were asked to complete a disease activity questionnaire before and yearly during the treatment. The primary outcome measure was the combined rhinitis and asthma symptoms scores. Data from patients completing at least 1 year of immunotherapy were analyzed. Altogether, 133 enrolled patients with a mean age of 22.7 years completed at least 1 year of SIT. The allergic rhinitis and asthma disease activity score decreased from a mean of 8.1 to 3.3 (rhinitis) and from 4.8 to 2.4 (asthma) on a 10 cm visual analogue scale after 1 year of SIT (p <0.001 for all comparisons). Rhinitis medication use in all patients and asthma medication use in asthmatics decreased significantly. Mild local adverse reactions were almost universal. There were 11 patients (8%) who developed 14 immediate systemic, mild to moderate reactions. All reactions were successfully treated in the clinic; none required additional observation or hospitalization," wrote Y. Zeldin and colleagues, Barzilai Medical Center.

   The researchers concluded: "In the hands of experienced allergists subcutaneous allergy immunotherapy is a safe and efficacious option for patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma."

   Zeldin and colleagues published their study in Israel Medical Association Journal (Safety and efficacy of allergen immunotherapy in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and asthma in real life. Israel Medical Association Journal, 2008;10(12):869-72).

   For additional information, contact Y. Zeldin, Allergy Service, Clalit Health Services, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel.

   Publisher contact information for the Israel Medical Association Journal is: Israel Medical Association Journal, 2 Twin Towers, 11TH FL, 35 Jabotinsky St., PO Box 3604, Ramat GaN 52136, Israel.

   Keywords: Israel, Allergies Immunotherapy, Aeroallergen, Allergen, Allergic Rhinitis, Allergies, Allergy Medicine, Asthma, Biological Therapy, Clinical Trial Research, Congenital Lobar Emphysema, Immunotherapy, Pulmonology, Treatment.

   This article was prepared by Biotech Business Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Biotech Business Week via NewsRx.com.

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