[Effects and complications of specific immunotherapy]

During the specific immunotherapy, we observe: -local reactions -systemic reactions. In most cases, it is an exacerbation of clinic symptomatology which may reach others organs nearby. Reactions will occur more or less quickly according to the kind of the extract: aqueous or delayed. Clinically, systemic reactions can induce a general trouble or an anaphylactic shock. Numerous causes could be at the beginning of these systemic reactions in relationship to an antigenic overdose or to a promoting state of health. We can observe systemic reactions at most for grass pollens or hymenoptera venoms. Standardisation of allergens is not riskless. On the opposite, it needs a best knowledge of standards which change from one laboratory to another. During specific immunotherapy of hymenoptera venom, when histamine release is positive again in more than sixty per cent we can observe correlation with systemic reactions. Epinephrine is mostly essential in treatment of anaphylactic reaction. Prevention of incidents and accidents of specific immunotherapy depends on a clinical care. This can be obtained by an expert of allergy who will be in relation with the family doctor.