Maintained disease control and steroid-sparing effect of subcutaneous immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis and asthma
Mehmet Unsel,1 Arzu Babayigit,2 Nerin Bahceciler2
1 Near East University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Allergy & Immunology, Nicosia, Cyprus
2 Near East University Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy & Immunology, Nicosia, Cyprus
Abstract
Background: Allergen immunotherapy is the only currently available treatment strategy that modifies the immune response to the causative allergen and induces clinical improvement and a steroid-sparing effect.
Objective: In this real-life study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) with one allergen or multiple allergens in children and adults with asthma and/or allergic rhinitis in terms of disease control and a steroid-sparing effect.
Methods: Demographics, the initial inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and/or intranasal corticosteroid (INS) dose, and other drugs of patients receiving SCIT for at least 12 months were recorded. Data on the final dose/use of ICS/INS and asthma and/or allergic rhinitis control were gathered.
Results: Of 104 patients included, 57.1% and 64.5% of patients with asthma and allergic rhinitis, respectively, were able to discontinue ICS and INS after SCIT. The median time to INS and ICS dose reduction was 6 months. SCIT with one allergen or multiple allergens effectively reduced the ICS and INS dose and led to control of asthma and allergic rhinitis, with no significant difference between the groups. When the efficacy of SCIT was compared in children and adults, there was no significant difference in terms of a steroid-sparing effect or the control of asthma and allergic rhinitis. SCIT was effective in both children and adult patients.
Conclusion: In this real-life observational study, we have demonstrated a marked steroid-sparing effect while maintaining control of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adults treated with one allergen or multiple allergens.
Key words: Allergen immunotherapy, asthma, allergic rhinitis, efficacy, inhaled steroid, intranasal steroid, steroid sparing