Immunotherapy with allergens
Article Abstract:
Allergen immunotherapy involves injecting sensitive individuals with progressively larger doses of the allergen over a long period of time to prevent future reactions. It is founded on studies which showed that individuals treated in such a manner produce IgG antibodies that can block the effect of IgE antibodies, which are the predominant antibody involved in allergic reactions. The success of immunotherapy was enhanced when specific allergens were isolated from ragweed and other allergic substances. Allergen immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in allergic rhinitis and asthma. Patients with ragweed allergy have experienced a reduction in symptoms during ragweed season after allergen immunotherapy. Some patients experience a recurrence of symptoms when immunotherapy is stopped, but others do not. The best patients for immunotherapy are those with severe reactions who do not respond to the drugs used to treat allergic symptoms.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Rhinitis and inhalant allergens
Article Abstract:
Rhinitis from inhaled allergens may affect 10-20% of the population, and often varies in severity and prevalence with the seasons. Allergic rhinitis causes sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and other symptoms of inflammatory changes in the upper airway. Common allergens are pollens, dust mites, fungi, and animal dander. People with this condition have an excessive immune reaction to specific allergens, and may react to irritants and odors as well. Skin testing may identify the cause, and treatment begins with avoidance. Drug therapy can usually control symptoms.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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