[Pollen allergy. II. Diagnosis and treatment]

Pollen allergy--one of the most frequent allergies in people is diagnosed by combined data, derived from patient's history together with in vitro and in vivo examinations. Basic in vivo examinations consist of skin prick tests with chosen allergens, functional tests of upper and lower respiratory tract, specific as well as non-specific nasal and bronchial challenge tests. The major role among in vitro examinations is played by those tests, which confirm atopic background of the disease (total and specific IgE). Other tests, like those for T-cell function and tests for effector cells activation, have secondary importance. Patients who are asymptomatic but endangered by the possibility of symptoms occurrence, are treated by primary prevention. Complex therapeutical approach consists of causal treatment (identification of allergens, specific immunotherapy), secondary prevention and symptomatic pharmacology.