[Therapy of allergic bronchial asthma]

Asthma and atopy are strongly related conditions. The presence of specific IgE to perennial (arthropods, animal dander and other), seasonal (pollens, certain fungal spores) and occupational allergens is associated with the occurrence of asthmatic symptoms. Current therapy is based on combining three principles: Avoidance of trigger factors and of allergen exposure, drug therapy, and specific immunotherapy. Feasability and effectiveness of allergen avoidance (particularly of perennial allergens) have been proven. However, these measures must often be supplemented with drug therapy. Several classes of drugs are nowadays available for treatment of asthmatic symptoms and, most importantly, for control of the bronchial inflammatory process which underlies atopic asthma. Specific immunotherapy is a good treatment option in allergy to pollens, but its use is controversial in allergy to house dust mites and other perennial allergens. Finally, it should be kept in mind that the successful longterm management of patients with atopic asthma depends highly on the compliance of patients.