Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026
16:56
Sublingual Immunotherapy as an Alternative to Induce Protection Against Acute Respiratory Infections
Published on: August 30, 2014
Latex sublingual immunotherapy: can its safety be predicted?
Suna Buyukozturk1, Ash Gelincik, Ferhan Ozşeker
1Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Allergy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Summary
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) effectively reduced symptoms in latex-allergic healthcare workers who couldn't avoid exposure. While generally safe, systemic reactions require caution during this latex allergy treatment.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Occupational Health
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Complete latex avoidance is often unfeasible for healthcare workers.
- Limited double-blind, placebo-controlled studies exist on sublingual latex immunotherapy (SLIT) efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and safety of latex SLIT in healthcare workers.
- To provide an alternative treatment for latex-allergic individuals with persistent symptoms.
Main Methods:
- 12 latex-allergic healthcare workers received either sublingual latex extract or placebo.
- Symptom and cutaneous provocation test scores were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 months.
- Patients experiencing severe adverse events were excluded.
Main Results:
- The active SLIT group showed significant reductions in symptom and provocation scores from baseline to 12 months.
- At 12 months, the active group had significantly lower symptom and provocation scores compared to placebo.
- Two patients experienced anaphylaxis and one severe bronchial obstruction, leading to exclusion.
Conclusions:
- Latex SLIT is a viable treatment for healthcare patients struggling with latex avoidance.
- Systemic reaction risks necessitate careful monitoring and preparedness during SLIT.
- Further research into optimizing SLIT safety and efficacy is warranted.
