[Course of rapid hyposensitization with insect venom with special reference to local reaction, as a contribution to risk reduction].

After critical evaluation of literature as well as the results obtained in this department up to now concerning skin tests and therapy with whole body extracts, we changed our mode of treatment of sting allergy to desensitization with pure insect venom. Clinical observations concerning the course of the rapid desensitization led to an accentuation of the local reaction as an important sign of the compatibility of the therapy. On account of local reaction patterns concerning the dosage of the venom, a significant reduction of the rate of side effects could be achieved in this high risk therapy.