Desensitisation therapy for allergies in children: part 1

Desensitisation, or immunotherapy, is a treatment for allergies where individuals are exposed to increasing amounts of the allergen to reduce immune reactivity. It aims to lessen allergy symptoms and decrease medication dependence. This method is effective for allergies like hay fever, allergic asthma, and insect venom reactions. In the first article of a two-part series distinguished consultant paediatrician Professor Nick Makwana explains how it can be used to enhance the quality of life for children and their families.

What is desensitisation?

Desensitisation, also known as immunotherapy, involves administering progressively higher doses of an allergen extract to mitigate or alleviate the symptoms it triggers, such as hay fever or specific food allergies. Initially pioneered around a century ago for pollen allergies, this method is now globally recognised as a safe and efficacious treatment for various allergies. Originally employed for hay fever, pet allergies, and house dust mite allergies, it has expanded to include certain food allergens, with the aim of enhancing the quality of life for children and their families.

What is allergy immunotherapy (desensitisation)?

Allergen immunotherapy treatment (often referred to as desensitisation) is regarded as a safe and effective treatment for allergies. The treatments all work by administering the patient with regular high doses of the relevant allergen, which dampens the immune response and reduces the severity of symptoms. It has been in widespread use for hay fever and allergies to house dust mite and pets, but more recently the same principles have been applied to help treat food allergies, which can be potentially life-threatening.

Aeroallergen immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is backed by extensive research, and we can offer treatments for tree and grass pollen as well as house dust mite. We are also able to offer treatment for allergy to animal dander. The treatments all work by administering the patient with regular high doses of the relevant allergen, which dampens the immune response and reduces the severity of symptoms.

Although medications like antihistamines and steroids may provide relief for certain symptoms, many patients still experience discomfort. Immunotherapy often proves beneficial for these individuals, as it's the sole treatment capable of addressing the root cause of allergy symptoms by reconditioning the immune system to be less reactive. Unlike conventional treatments, which merely alleviate symptoms, immunotherapy offers long-lasting effects even after discontinuation.

How does immunotherapy (desensitisation) work?

The treatment works by administering the patient with regular doses of an allergen extract to try and reduce allergic symptoms in the longer term. This in turn can lead to a reduction, or no further need, for medication.

The effects of immunotherapy can last for many years after the treatment is complete as the immune system has a memory. This results in long-term benefits, particularly for children, where it has been shown to prevent the future development of additional allergies and asthma symptoms.

Allergen immunotherapy can take the form of either tablets or oral solution placed under the tongue (sublingual), or in the form of injections (subcutaneous).

What are the benefits of allergen immunotherapy?

Scientific studies have shown immunotherapy offers a promising solution for alleviating hay fever and seasonal asthma triggered by grass or tree pollen, as well as house dust mites. Many individuals undergoing this treatment experience a significant reduction in symptoms, often requiring less medication or even none at all. Notably, the modified immune response leads to enduring benefits that extend beyond the typical three-year treatment period.

If treatment is started at an early age, then it may prevent new allergies from developing and reduce the chance of getting asthma in later life.  It is important to note that immunotherapy only works against a specific allergen and will not improve symptoms caused by other allergens.

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