Specific immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Otolaryngology
• Allergology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis significantly impacts quality of life.
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) is the only treatment that can alter the disease course.
• SIT is underutilized by the ENT community despite its benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy of SIT in allergic rhinitis.
• To highlight the benefits of SIT for symptom control and disease progression.
• To discuss the role of SIT for ENT practitioners.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent meta-analyses and clinical studies on SIT.
• Analysis of immunobiological changes associated with SIT.
• Comparison of sublingual SIT (drops and tablets) with subcutaneous SIT.

Main Results:

• SIT significantly reduces allergic rhinitis symptoms and medication requirements.
• SIT lowers the risk of developing asthma and new sensitizations.
• Sublingual SIT (drops and tablets) is as effective as subcutaneous SIT with a better safety profile.

Conclusions:

• SIT is a valuable treatment for allergic rhinitis, offering symptom relief and disease modification.
• Sublingual SIT presents a practical and safe option for wider adoption by ENT specialists.
• Standardization of clinical trials is recommended for further comparative studies.