[Intradermal immunotherapy with low-dose house dust mite allergens in patients with allergic rhinitis: A proof-of-concept study].

BACKGROUND

High-dose aqueous subcutaneous immunotherapy is a validated and effective administration route for house dust mite and pollen allergens.

OBJECTIVE

A proof-of-concept study using intradermal immunotherapy (IDIT) with low-dose house dust mite allergens (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinnus/Dermatophagoides farinae [Dp/Df] and Blomia tropicalis [Bt]) was carried out in children with allergic rhinitis symptomatic upon exposure to house dust.

METHODS

Eight immunotherapy-naïve patients with positive prick skin tests and specific serum IgE to a Dp/Df mixture and to Bt were weekly administered 0.05 mL of an IDIT consisting of a phenolyzed albumin-saline preparation containing low-dose dust mites (8.3 AU [5 ng] of Dp/Df and 2.5 DBU of Bt), for 3 months. Nasal (Total Nasal Symptom Score) and facial symptoms (Visual Analog Scale) were recorded 2 weeks prior to treatment and once weekly during its course. Serial dilutions skin prick tests (1/100-1/1.000.000) and serum allergen-specific IgG4 determinations were performed at baseline and at treatment conclusion.

RESULTS

Values on the scales suggested clinical improvement. There was a significant decrease in serial dilutions skin prick tests' wheal diameters, as well as an increase in serum IgG4 values at treatment completion. IDIT was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

If the present results are confirmed by further studies, allergen-specific immunotherapy wider use could be promoted.