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Long-term adherence to imported fire ant subcutaneous immunotherapy
Brittanie I Neaves1, Karla E Adams2, Kevin M White2
1Department of Allergy-Immunology, Keesler Medical Center, Biloxi, Mississippi.
Summary
Long-term adherence to imported fire ant (IFA) immunotherapy is poor, with only 13% completing 5 years. Initial sting severity and treatment protocols predict adherence to IFA immunotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Imported fire ant (IFA) whole-body extract subcutaneous immunotherapy (IT) is a recognized treatment for IFA hypersensitivity.
- The recommended treatment duration for IFA IT is 3 to 5 years for optimal efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term adherence rates of patients undergoing IFA immunotherapy.
- To identify factors influencing adherence in individuals allergic to IFA in an endemic region.
Main Methods:
- Prospective enrollment of 87 patients with IFA-sting systemic reactions from 2007 to 2014.
- Annual follow-up to evaluate interval immunotherapy adherence.
- Analysis of adherence based on demographics, initial sting severity, and concurrent treatments.
Main Results:
- 89% of patients initiated IFA IT within a year of recommendation.
- Only 23% adhered to a 3-year course and 13% to a 5-year course.
- Predictors of adherence included initial sting severity, buildup protocol, and concurrent Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Long-term adherence to IFA IT is suboptimal.
- Factors such as initial sting severity and specific treatment protocols influence patient adherence.
- Relocation and inconvenience were primary reasons for treatment discontinuation.
