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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
05:27
Captive Maintenance and Venom Extraction of Tityus serrulatus (Brazilian Yellow Scorpion) for Antivenom Production
Published on: October 6, 2023
Long-term efficacy of venom immunotherapy
Tomaz Hafner1, Lawrence DuBuske, Mitja Kosnik
1University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, Golnik, Slovenia.
Summary
Venom immunotherapy (VIT) offers lasting protection against severe systemic reactions. However, the risk of systemic reactions may increase with subsequent stings after discontinuing VIT.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Clinical Toxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Long-term efficacy of venom immunotherapy (VIT) after discontinuation is not well-established.
- Uncertainty exists regarding sting reaction patterns in patients who stop VIT prematurely or after subsequent stings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sting reaction patterns in patients who previously underwent venom immunotherapy (VIT).
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was sent to patients who received VIT between 1984-2004, asking about subsequent stings and reactions.
- Telephone follow-ups were conducted to clarify patient responses regarding sting reactions after VIT cessation.
Main Results:
- Of 227 respondents, 100 patients were stung after discontinuing VIT; 92 had local and 8 had systemic reactions.
- Among those stung multiple times post-VIT, 17.5% experienced increased reaction severity.
- All patients reported milder reactions to stings after VIT compared to pre-treatment levels.
Conclusions:
- Venom immunotherapy (VIT) generally provides sustained protection against severe systemic reactions.
- Subsequent insect stings after VIT cessation may increase the risk of systemic reactions.
- Patients consistently reported milder sting symptoms after discontinuing VIT compared to before treatment.
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