Hymenoptera venom allergy in humans

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Toxicology
• Insect Science

Background:

• Hymenoptera stings cause local and systemic allergic reactions, with systemic reactions occurring in 0.3-7.5% of the general population.
• Honeybees (Apis mellifera) and Vespidae wasps are common causes of systemic anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction affecting multiple organ systems.
• The Mueller scale classifies anaphylaxis severity, with specific IgE antibodies mediating mast cell activation being crucial in its pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical significance and management of Hymenoptera sting-induced anaphylaxis.
• To elucidate the role of specific IgE antibodies and mast cells in anaphylaxis.
• To describe the principles and effectiveness of venom immunotherapy (VIT) for insect sting allergies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Hymenoptera sting reactions and anaphylaxis.
• Analysis of the mechanisms of anaphylaxis, including IgE antibody and mast cell involvement.
• Description of venom specific immunotherapy (VIT) protocols, including initial and maintenance doses, and treatment duration.

Main Results:

• Systemic reactions to Hymenoptera stings range from 0.3-7.5% in the general population, higher in beekeepers (14-43%).
• Venom specific immunotherapy (VIT) involves initial and maintenance doses over 3-5 years, inducing immune tolerance.
• VIT demonstrates high therapeutic effectiveness, 90-100% for wasp venom and approximately 80% for bee venom allergies.

Conclusions:

• Hymenoptera sting anaphylaxis is a significant clinical concern requiring effective management strategies.
• Venom specific immunotherapy (VIT) is a crucial preventive measure that induces long-term immune tolerance.
• VIT offers substantial protection against severe allergic reactions to insect stings, with high efficacy rates.