[Introduction: can one still desensitize in 1994?]

The immunological component of allergic disease is the subject of constant fundamental research work, but the clinical results of specific immunotherapy are still controversial. Only well constructed clinical studies can prove efficacy and tolerance of the therapy. Therefore it seems to us there should be search for a consensus and a reference system for the therapy, on the basis of rigorous therapeutical tests. It is only thus that the practice of allergology will be recognised and respected in the medical world, for the benefit and health of the patients.