ALLERGY TO HYMENOPTERA INSECT VENOM: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF A PATIENT

Abstract

Hymenoptera insect sting cause systemic allergic reactions up to 7.5% in adults and up to 3.4% in children. Symptoms vary from mild skin to severe, fatal anaphylactic reactions. Patients experiencing systemic reactions often feel fear, are stigmatized, may be forced to change their habits, carry first aid medications during the warm season. However, specific
venom immunotherapy is the only treatment that can protect such patients from a life-threatening reaction. It effectively prevents serious systemic allergic reactions and is recommended for children and adults with sensitization and systemic allergic reactions beyond skin symptoms.