Barriers to accessing aeroallergen immunotherapy in paediatrics

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a safe, effective and disease-modifying treatment for allergic rhinitis. It is indicated for children with moderate to severe disease whose symptoms persist despite conventional therapy. There is a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis amongst Irish children; however, levels of AIT prescribing in Ireland are lower than neighbouring countries.

The aims of this study are to describe current patterns of AIT prescribing and referrals amongst Irish paediatricians and to identify barriers to accessing AIT in Ireland.

An electronic questionnaire was distributed to all paediatricians and paediatric trainees caring for children with allergic rhinitis.

A lack of knowledge of AIT clinical criteria was the most frequently reported barrier with 50.5% (50/99) of general paediatricians unaware of the indications for referral compared to 27.3% (3/11) of respiratory physicians and 0% (0/8) of allergists. Accessibility is the next most cited barrier with 31.4% (37/118) of respondents unsure where to refer and 19.5% (23/118) reporting a lack of local services. Cost was reported to be a barrier by 12.7% (15/118). Paediatricians with an allergy or respiratory subspecialisation reported seeing significantly higher numbers of children with allergic rhinitis and were more likely to prescribe or refer a child for AIT.

This study demonstrated positive attitudes towards AIT amongst all grades and specialities of paediatricians in Ireland. The main barriers to more widespread use are difficulties with the identification of suitable candidates by general paediatricians and a lack of local AIT services and referral pathways.