NEW POSSIBILITIES OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS AND ASTHMA SPECIFIC IMMUNOTHERAPY

Abstract

The treatment of allergic diseases is complex and the identification of a causative allergen is a first step. Domestic mites, furred animals, cockroaches, fungi are the most relevant indoor allergen sources causing the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. Pollen allergens and also fungi are causative allergens of outdoor environment. Avoidance measures for allergens should be taken initially although a sufficient reduction in allergen load for example during the polllen season is not always achievable. There is conflicting evidence about whether single avoidance measure for house dust mite, cat, dog allergens will lead to clinical improvement of asthma and allergic rhinitis. Medications are a second step in a management plan of allergic diseases. Those introduced during the last decades are highly effective in maintaining asthma and allergic rhinitis control and safe but should be used daily for a long- term basis as no drug cures the allergic disease. Specific immunotherapy can be used effectively for patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma in an early stage of disease together with maintenance therapy.