[Specific immunotherapy in allergies--evaluation of current status].

Specific immunotherapy is the treatment of choice in the therapy of inhalant allergies. Application route and dose regimen, selection and quality of allergens, as well as the individual patient represent different variables of immunotherapy to be considered. Premedication by oral antihistamines is mandatory for the reduction of side effects. Histamine-intolerance represents a contraindication for immunotherapy. Specific immunotherapy is highly efficacious leading to a 50-100% reduction of symptoms in nearly 90% of patients.