Pediatric subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy.

Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is a widely used therapy for allergic rhinitis and asthma. It is a useful adjunct to standard medical management of these conditions that can lead to long-term benefits and possible resolution of symptoms. The benefits of SCIT, particularly for children, include avoiding prolonged use and side effects from medications, preventing new aeroallergen sensitizations, and reducing the risk of developing asthma. The primary risks of SCIT include local and systemic reactions. Standard schedules for SCIT include advancing through multiple doses usually in four vials (diluted to 1:1000) on a weekly basis; however, there are benefits of using accelerated schedules, especially for children who need to coordinate school and parent work schedules. Special considerations for pediatric patients include fear of needles, avoiding discomfort with injections, consent, optimal injection scheduling, and difficulty communicating about symptoms during reactions in very young children. Overall, SCIT can be a safe and beneficial therapy for children.