[Desensitization to mites: literature review]

It is agreed that efficacy of specific desensitization to mites is proved by objective double-blind studies, in the short term to reduce crises and drug treatment and in the long term to reduce inflammation and in the case of asthma, irreversible broncho-pulmonary blockages. The selected population must contain both children and adults. Well-defined criteria for inclusion and exclusion are essential in making this selection. Evaluation of specific desensitization is made subjectively by clinical assessment and objectively by different scores for symptoms, drug consumption, skin tests lung function and biological assays. A review of the different methods of desensitization will be made, with their results and tolerance.