Table 1 Allergen-specific immunotherapy: indications, contraindications and special considerations [5,6,7]
Indications | • Patients with stinging insect (venom) hypersensitivity and evidence of venom-specific IgE • Patients with allergic rhinitis/conjunctivitis and/or allergic asthma who have evidence of specific IgE antibodies to clinically relevant allergens; includes patients who: - Do not achieve control of symptoms with avoidance measures and pharmacotherapy - Do not want ongoing or long-term pharmacotherapy - Experience undesirable side effects with pharmacotherapy • Patients with atopic dermatitis associated with aeroallergen sensitization (may be considered) |
Contraindications | • Patients with uncontrolled or severe asthma • Significant co‐morbid diseases such as cardiovascular disability • Patients on beta‐blockers (absolute contraindication with environmental allergens, relative contraindication with venoms) |
Special considerations | • Children < 6 years of age • Pregnancy • The elderly • Patients with malignancy, immunodeficiency and autoimmune diseases |