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Local and systemic immunotherapy in nasal allergy
A G Palma-Carlos1, M L Palma-Carlos, A Spínola Santos
1First Medical Clinic, Lisbon University Hospital, Portugal.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|November 30, 1999
Summary
Nasal immunotherapy effectively reduced allergy symptoms and medication use in both perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. This treatment also decreased mast cell reactivity, indicating a beneficial effect on allergic responses.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Nasal allergy significantly impacts quality of life.
- Immunotherapy is a treatment option for allergic rhinitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the short-term effects of nasal immunotherapy on allergic rhinitis symptoms and drug consumption.
- To assess the impact of specific systemic immunotherapy on mast cell reactivity in patients allergic to Parietaria.
Main Methods:
- A trial of nasal immunotherapy was conducted, involving increasing allergen doses over 3 months followed by maintenance.
- Symptom scores and drug consumption were recorded and compared to pre-treatment periods.
- Tryptase release in nasal washings was measured after nasal challenge with Parietaria extract before and after immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Nasal immunotherapy led to decreased symptom scores (blockage, rhinorrhea, sneezing, itching) and reduced pharmacological scores in both perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis.
- Specific systemic immunotherapy reduced tryptase release following nasal challenge, indicating decreased mast cell reactivity.
Conclusions:
- Nasal immunotherapy demonstrates short-term efficacy in alleviating allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Specific systemic immunotherapy affects mast cell reactivity, suggesting a mechanism for its therapeutic benefit in allergic conditions.